Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has announced plans to reform UK immigration laws to enable the deportation of Shabir Ahmed, the former ringleader of a Rochdale grooming gang.

Ahmed, who was jailed for 22 years and released on licence in July 2026, cannot be deported under the 1971 Immigration Act, which protects Commonwealth citizens who arrived in the UK over 50 years ago.

The proposed amendment would remove these protections for foreign criminals convicted of serious offences, aligning deportation laws with citizenship removal rules.Mahmood argued that while the 1971 Act safeguards long-term residents, it should not block deportations in cases like Ahmed's.However, Pakistan's refusal to accept Ahmed complicates matters, as his return depends on bilateral agreements.Victims' groups have expressed concerns about his release, citing fears for their safety.The amendment will be included in the Immigration and Asylum Bill, with potential legislative action expected by September.

Critics, including Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp, urge urgent measures, suggesting visa sanctions against Pakistan if it refuses to repatriate Ahmed.Diplomatic tensions are rising as negotiations between the UK and Pakistan over extradition remain unresolved.