Two men jailed for raping and abusing a young girl in Luton almost two decades ago

Two men have been sentenced to a total of 36 years in jail for raping a young girl in Luton almost twenty years ago.
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Emdadul Lukman, 47, and Jakhir Hussain, 37, were sentenced yesterday (Thursday) at St Albans Crown Court after a jury unanimously found them guilty of multiple counts of rape and inciting a girl under 13 to engage in sexual activity.

The investigation began in February 2018 after the victim revealed the horrific abuse she had endured when both men stayed at her family home for a short period when she was a child.

She described how Lukman and Hussain both manipulated and groomed her into taking part in sexual activity with each of them, by paying her attention, empathising with her, playing board games, and buying her sweets and gifts.

Lukman (left) and Hussain (right)Lukman (left) and Hussain (right)
Lukman (left) and Hussain (right)

Now an adult, she decided to tell her mother and husband what had happened to her, which resulted in the abuse being reported to police and both men arrested.

After a two-week trial, Lukman, of Waldegrave Street, Hastings, was found guilty of six counts of raping a girl under the age of 13 and two counts of causing/inciting a girl under 13 to engage in sexual activity. He was sentenced to 16 years in prison.

Hussain, of Keymer Court, Burgess Hill, was found guilty of three counts of raping a girl under the age of 13 and three counts of causing/inciting a girl under 13 to engage in sexual activity and was jailed for 20 years. Both men must serve their whole term.

PC Benjamin Robertson, from Bedfordshire Police’s child and vulnerable adult abuse team, said: “These two men destroyed the childhood of an innocent young girl and this has had a profound effect on her as she has grown into an adult.

“I commend the bravery and courage that she has shown throughout the past two years while the investigation has progressed. I hope that these sentences bring some closure to her and allow her to now concentrate on her future.

“Child sexual abuse is the most horrific ordeal a child can go through. We want to reiterate that it is never too late to come forward and tell police if you have been the victim of sexual abuse, no matter how long ago it was. You will be listened to, you will be supported, and we will endeavour to do all we can to seek justice for you.”

If you have concerns about child sexual abuse or you have been a victim, please report it to Bedfordshire Police on 101.

The NSPCC website has a wealth of information on how to teach your child about staying safe from sexual abuse, including the PANTS underwear rule:

P – Privates are private

A – Always remember your body belongs to you

N – No means no

T – Talk about secrets that upset you

S – Speak up, someone can help