Man sentenced to life imprisonment for rape following Met investigation

A man who abused his position as a respected imam in the local community by pretending to have spiritual powers to coerce and sexually abuse women and girls as young as 12 has been brought to justice.

Abdul Halim Khan, 54 (26.01.72) of Old Ford Road, Tower Hamlets was sentenced to life imprisonment to serve a minimum of 20 years at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Thursday, 14 May following a Met Police investigation.

Khan was found guilty on Friday, 13 February of 21 sexual offences against seven victim-survivors, including nine counts of rape.

Today’s sentencing signifies the dedication of investigators, who did everything in their power to support the survivors and achieve justice on their behalf.

Detective Chief Inspector Jennie Ronan, whose team led the investigation, said:

“Abdul Khan presented himself as a respectable man who could be trusted. However, this was far from the truth, and he instead preyed upon and took advantage of others.

“Today, I want to focus on the victim-survivors, who have shown remarkable bravery in reporting Khan and great strength throughout the trial. We hope that today’s outcome provides as a measure of comfort as they continue to rebuild their lives and serves as a reminder to anyone who has experienced sexual violence that support is available.

“We remain absolutely committed to tackling violence against women and girls, targeting dangerous offenders and removing them from London’s streets.”

Follow the sentencing, one of the survivors of Khan's abuse thanked the Met’s investigating officers for their support. She said:

“Taking the difficult step to come forward and speak about the abuse and trauma I suffered has been painful and one of the hardest things I have ever done. Coming forward felt like revisiting painful memories and emotions I had suppressed for years.

“After eight long years, I am relieved that justice has been served. But even with this outcome, the trauma does not simply disappear. The scars remain, and healing is a lifelong journey. Speaking out was terrifying, but it has also been a step toward reclaiming my strength.

“I am deeply grateful to the Metropolitan Police for handling my case with care, sensitivity, and professionalism throughout. I am also thankful to my family, friends, and the professionals who supported me, their belief and care made an immense difference.

“I hope that my coming forward encourages other survivors to know they are not alone, that they are never to blame, and that what happened to them truly matters. I also hope this outcome reminds society and institutions of the importance of listening to survivors, taking action to protect children, and ensuring that abuse is never ignored. No child should ever have to endure what I did, and we all have a responsibility to protect and believe them.”

Melissa Garner, Specialist Prosecutor at the Crown Prosecution Service, said:

"Abdul Khan abused his position as a trusted religious leader to prey on women and girls over many years, manipulating and controlling them for his own sexual gratification.

“He used their deeply held beliefs to instil fear and silence them, making them believe their families would be at risk if they ever spoke out.

“I hope this prosecution sends a clear message that the Crown Prosecution Service will work tirelessly to protect women and girls and bring anyone who commits these appalling crimes to justice.”

The investigation

Police first became aware of Khan’s offending in February 2018 when the youngest victim reported Khan to a teacher at her school.

Following the allegations, Met detectives began to build a case against Khan.

As part of their investigation, officers interviewed over 50 witnesses and examined ten mobile phone devices.

In his interview’s Khan repeatedly denied the allegations stating it was a conspiracy, and the victims had concocted a story for revenge.

Abdul Halim Khan was found guilty of the following offences:

• Nine counts of rape,

• Four counts of sexual assault,

• Two counts of sexual assault of a child under thirteen,

• Five counts of rape of a child under thirteen,

• One count of assault by penetration.

Anyone with information or wishing to report offences relating to Khan can call 101 quoting Op Sparebank, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

For confidential help, the 24/7 Rape & Sexual Abuse Support Line offers free phone and online chat for anyone aged 16+ in England and Wales: 0808 500 2222 or visit 247sexualabusesupport.org.uk.