Ahmad Mulakhil, a 23-year-old Afghan national, has pleaded guilty to raping a 12-year-old girl in Nuneaton. He changed his plea at Warwick Crown Court, admitting to one count of raping a child under the age of 13.
He had previously denied this charge, along with allegations of abduction, further counts of rape, and sexual assault. Mulakhil appeared in court with co-defendant Mohammad Kabir, also 23 and of no fixed abode, who denies multiple charges including attempting to take a child, aiding and abetting rape, and intentional strangulation.
Both men are Afghan nationals and required interpreters in court. The alleged offences occurred on July 22.
Judge Kristina Montgomery KC remanded both defendants into custody and scheduled their next appearance for December 12, when further directions will be made and the complainant is expected to attend for cross-examination. The judge advised both men to reflect carefully on their positions.
The arrests and charges prompted protests outside Nuneaton Town Hall, with demonstrators expressing anti-immigration sentiments. A smaller counter-protest by Stand Up to Racism was also present.
