Former Imam Convicted for Using 'Supernatural Powers' to Abuse Victims
Abdul Halim Khan, a 54-year-old former imam, has been found guilty of 21 serious offences after exploiting his trusted position within a mosque to commit horrific acts of sexual abuse. Khan, from Old Forde Road in London, was convicted at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Friday, February 13, following a detailed police investigation.
Details of the Crimes and Conviction
The conviction includes nine counts of rape, four counts of sexual assault, two counts of sexual assault of a child under 13, five counts of rape of a child under 13, and one additional count of sexual assault. Khan targeted seven victims, including girls as young as 12 years old, over an 11-year period from 2004 to 2015.
He manipulated his victims by convincing them he possessed supernatural powers, threatening them with black magic to keep the abuse secret. Khan coerced the women and girls into meeting him at isolated locations, such as flats and hidden spots, under the false premise that he could protect them from harm. Instead, he subjected them to vicious rapes and sexual assaults, often claiming he would be possessed or disguised as a jinn, a supernatural spirit.
Impact on Victims and Their Courage
One victim shared a powerful statement about the lasting trauma: "The abuse I suffered as a child has had a profound and lasting impact on my life. What happened to me did not end when the abuse stopped; it affected my sense of safety, my ability to trust others, and the way I understood relationships and authority." She added that coming forward was extremely difficult but being listened to and believed helped restore some trust.
The crimes came to light in February 2018 when the youngest victim reported Khan to a teacher at her school. Despite Khan denying the allegations and calling it a conspiracy for revenge, he was charged on March 16, 2023, after a thorough investigation by the Metropolitan Police.
Police and Prosecution Response
Detective Sergeant Sara Yems, who led the investigation, praised the victims' courage: "It shows remarkable strength for anyone to report abuse, especially when the abuser is believed to be a trusted figure. The seven women who came forward have shown extraordinary courage in speaking with police, and I hope they serve as an inspiration to other victims and survivors." She emphasized the police's commitment to tackling violence against women and girls.
Melissa Garner, a specialist prosecutor for the Crown Prosecution Service, stated: "Khan abused his position of trust and authority to carry out a vicious series of rapes and sexual abuses. He coerced and deceived them into thinking that he possessed supernatural powers which could protect them and their families from harm in exchange for hideous acts of sexual abuse without their consent." She highlighted the lifelong physical and emotional trauma caused and encouraged other victims to come forward.
Khan has been remanded in custody and is scheduled for sentencing on May 14. This case underscores the importance of reporting abuse and the relentless pursuit of justice for survivors.
