UK government officials are in discussions with Pakistan regarding the deportation of Shabir Ahmed, a Rochdale grooming gang ringleader, following his release from prison.

Ahmed, who was stripped of his UK passport after a 2012 conviction for sexual offences against girls, faces legal barriers under a 55-year-old law that prohibits the removal of Commonwealth citizens who arrived in the UK before 1973.Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has instructed the home secretary to review the case, with Andy Burnham urging action.

Despite calls to amend the 1971 Immigration Act, Pakistan's cooperation remains a critical hurdle, as the country previously refused to deport two of Ahmed's co-conspirators.Victims express fear over his release, with some feeling unsafe.The Home Office warns of strict conditions on Ahmed's movements, including GPS monitoring, and threatens immediate re-imprisonment for breaches.The case highlights broader issues of diplomatic challenges and the UK's commitment to removing foreign offenders, though complexities persist.