West Yorkshire Police have charged twelve people as part of a major investigation into non-recent child sexual abuse in Calderdale. The alleged offences took place between 2000 and 2004 and involved two female victims under the age of 16.

The suspects, from Halifax, Brighouse, and Dewsbury, are due to appear at Bradford Magistrates’ Court on 4 February .

Individuals charged include:

• Safraz Azram (57, Halifax) – six counts of rape, indecent assault
• Shazad Nazir (50) – four counts of rape
• Gulbhar Aziz (50) – rape, attempted rape
• Raja Yasin (73) – indecent assault
• Irfaan Bashir (42) – four counts of rape
• Asad Ali (41) – two counts of rape
• Mohammed Hamza (52) – three counts of rape
• Adil Arshid (40) – rape
• Thomas Jackson (71) – sexual assault of a girl under 13
• Shazad Rehman (43) – five counts of rape, threats to kill
• Abdul Hafeez (49) – indecent assault, causing/inciting sexual activity
• Joanne Lowther (55) – assault occasioning actual bodily harm

Switalskis Represents Survivors Nationwide

Cases like this highlight the devastating impact of child sexual abuse and the courage it takes for survivors to come forward, even decades later. At Switalskis , we represent victims of abuse across England and Wales , providing compassionate, specialist legal support to help them seek justice.

If you’ve been affected by abuse and need support, The Survivors Trust offers a free, confidential helpline: 0808 801 0818 or text 07860 022 956 . Visit thesurvivorstrust.org for details.

For confidential legal advice, contact Sally Smith on 01924 882000 or email sally.smith@switalskis.com or alternatively, complete an enquiry through our website, using the form below.