Warwickshire Police deny rape cover-up claims after a council leader accused the force of withholding key details about suspects in a high-profile case. The controversy involves the alleged rape of a 12-year-old girl in Nuneaton, with two men now facing charges. George Finch, leader of Warwickshire County Council, claimed police and the Home Office concealed information about the suspects. He asserted that both accused men were asylum seekers, suggesting authorities deliberately avoided public disclosure.
However, Warwickshire Police deny rape cover-up claims, stating their priority remains supporting the victim. Chief Constable Alex Franklin-Smith emphasized that officers acted swiftly to arrest and charge the suspects. In a public letter, Franklin-Smith addressed Finch’s accusations directly. He confirmed the suspects’ immigration status but defended the decision not to release it earlier. National guidelines discourage disclosing such details at the charging stage to avoid prejudicing trials.
Finch, the UK’s youngest council leader at 19, had already received a confidential briefing on the case. Despite this, he publicly accused authorities of suppressing facts. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage backed Finch, comparing the situation to the Southport attacks. Ahmad Mulakhil faces two counts of rape, while Mohammad Kabir is charged with kidnap, strangulation, and aiding an underage rape. Both men, residing in Nuneaton, will appear at Warwick Crown Court on August 26.
Franklin-Smith stressed that Warwickshire Police deny rape cover-up claims, insisting the investigation was thorough. He also confirmed consulting the Home Office to verify the suspects’ immigration status. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper acknowledged ongoing reviews of disclosure policies. However, she noted that police and prosecutors must balance transparency with legal fairness. Critics like Farage argue the public has a right to know suspects’ backgrounds, especially in sensitive cases.
Finch’s allegations have fueled broader debates about immigration and crime. Yet, legal experts warn against conflating individual cases with systemic issues. Franklin-Smith reiterated that protecting the victim guided all decisions. Warwickshire Police continue working with local agencies to ensure her welfare. Meanwhile, Finch’s public statements have drawn mixed reactions, with some praising his transparency and others condemning politicization.
As the case progresses, Warwickshire Police deny rape cover-up claims while preparing for trial. The outcome may influence future handling of similar high-profile investigations.
For more political updates, visit London Pulse News.
