The National Crime Agency have been looking at allegations of abuse in Rotherham between 1997-2013, known as Operation Stovewood.

Included in the 52 individuals who have been convicted as part of Operation Stovewood are three brothers, Amar Ilyas (known by his victims as “Killer”), 41, Kamar Ilyas, 39, and Kamran Ilyas, 38.

Amar Ilyas was, on 24th September 2025, convicted of all 20 sexual offences against him and a charge of possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear.

The two younger brothers were convicted on 9th March 2026 of a total of five sexual offences, including rape, against one of the girls also targeted by Amar.

The offences took place between 2004 and 2008 at locations in the Sheffield area against four girls, as young as 12, and one woman aged 18 or 19 at the time. The victims were groomed and threatened with violence if they did not comply.

Kamar Ilyas first made contact with one of the girls, now in her thirties, when she was just 12 years old. He encouraged her to meet him at locations around Sheffield, where he sexually abused and raped her. He introduced her to Amar Ilyas, who raped her on a weekly basis for three years. The third brother, Kamran Ilyas, also sexually abused her around this time. 

Another of the girls was targeted by Amar Ilyas when she was 13. He visited her at her home in Sheffield and initial meetings were friendly. He subsequently encouraged her to drink and take drugs, then raped her on two occasions in her home and indecently assaulted her. 

Amar Ilyas did not attend his trial in September 2025. It is believed that he travelled abroad to Pakistan, having been released on unconditional court bail prior to the trial. A warrant has been issued for his arrest.

Kamran and Kamar Ilyas will be sentenced in June 2026 and are remanded in custody.

Alan Hastings, National Crime Agency Senior Investigating Officer said, “Despite the horrendous abuse all five women have suffered, they have shown great courage and absolute determination to see the perpetrators face justice, which our investigation has ensured for them all.”

Martin McRobb, Specialist Prosecutor for the Crown Prosecution Service, said “The CPS will continue to work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to pursue perpetrators of child sexual abuse and secure justice for victims, no matter how many years have passed."

If you or someone you know has been affected by grooming or child sexual abuse, our experienced legal team is here to support you and offer confidential advice.

Getting advice and support

If you are affected by these issues and want confidential advice about your legal options specialist abuse support is available.

Amy Clowrey , director and solicitor in our abuse claims team, specialises in child sexual abuse compensation with a particular interest in claims involving child sexual exploitation and grooming. She has been heavily involved in supporting victims of grooming scandals across the country.

For confidential legal advice, please contact Amy Clowrey on 01924 882000 , email Amy.Clowrey@switalskis.com or contact us through the website below.

Alternatively, The Survivors Trust offers a free, confidential helpline for anyone aged 16 and over. You can call 0808 801 0818 or text 07860 022 956 . Visit thesurvivorstrust.org for full details.