Two Afghan asylum seekers who arrived in Britain alone last year received long detention sentences for raping a 15-year-old girl in Leamington Spa. The attack happened in a park in May after the teens, Jan Jahanzeb and Israr Niazal, both 17, led the drunk girl away from her friends.
The court reviewed disturbing footage the girl recorded during the assault. She cried for help and begged to go home. In her statement, she said the attack changed her life and marked her first sexual experience.
Crimes by asylum seekers have become a major political flashpoint in Britain. The government faces increasing pressure as more migrants attempt to cross the Channel. Recent high-profile cases, including the rape of a 12-year-old in Nuneaton and assaults in Epping, triggered nationwide protests. Some turned violent, especially outside hotels housing asylum seekers.
Judge Sylvia de Bertodano said naming the teens served the public interest. Jahanzeb received 10 years and eight months. Niazal received nine years and ten months. Deportation will follow their sentences.
Jahanzeb travelled across Europe alone and crossed the Channel on his fourth attempt. Niazal fled the Taliban after his father, a former soldier, was murdered. The judge said both teens betrayed those who seek safety in Britain.
