Four men charged in Rhyl child sexual exploitation probe
Detectives investigating child sexual exploitation and trafficking offences in Denbighshire have charged four men following arrests on Thursday, 7 August.
The men, aged between 24 and 60, face multiple serious charges linked to the ongoing investigation.
Mustafa Iqbal, 42, of Trellewelyn Road, Rhyl, is charged with three counts of rape, three counts of sexual assault, three counts of inciting a child under 16 to engage in sexual activity, six offences under the Modern Slavery Act, conspiracy to supply Class A and Class B drugs, possession of a firearm, and breach of a Slavery and Trafficking Risk Order.
Mohammad Usman Arshad, 35, of Clifton Grove, Rhyl, faces charges including rape, four offences under the Modern Slavery Act, and supplying Class B drugs.
Ziaullah Badsha, 24, of Brighton Road, Rhyl, is charged with two counts of rape, four offences under the Modern Slavery Act, and supplying Class B drugs.
Jaswinder Singh, 60, of River Street, Rhyl, is charged with two offences under the Modern Slavery Act and supply of Class B drugs.
All four men appeared at Llandudno Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 8 August and were remanded in custody. They are due to next appear at Mold Crown Court on Friday, 5 September.
Further charges are being brought against a woman linked to the investigation, with her court appearance scheduled for next week.
A 61-year-old man from London, arrested during the investigation, has been released on bail pending further enquiries.
The investigation, involving Operations Embank and Zirconium, has been led by North Wales Police and relates to three teenage female victims who reported offences between April 2022 and March 2024 in Rhyl and nearby areas.
Detective Chief Inspector Rich Sidney said: “Our priority is always the protection and support of victims, and this investigation is no exception.
“We urge anyone who has experienced abuse—or who is concerned about someone who may be suffering—to come forward. You will be listened to, your report will be investigated, and we will ensure you have access to the support you need.
“This has been a complex and long-running investigation. We have liaised with the Crown Prosecution Service throughout the process and this collaboration has resulted in authority to charge the suspects involved with multiple serious offences being provided.
“We would now ask for people to respect the judicial process and to avoid online speculation on this case. This is to ensure the integrity of the investigation and court proceedings.”
Specialist Prosecutor Louisa Robertson added: “The Crown Prosecution Service has authorised North Wales Police to charge four males and one female in respect of these two investigations.
“The Crown Prosecution Service reminds all concerned that criminal proceedings against each individual are now active and that they all have a right to a fair trial. It is extremely important that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.”
Anyone wishing to report child sexual exploitation is asked to contact North Wales Police online or by calling 101. For emergencies or immediate danger, call 999.
More information and support details are available on the North Wales Police website.
Check live fuel prices near you before you set off.
Spotted something? Got a story? Email news (@) deeside.com
NEW: Add Deeside.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our trusted coverage when you search.
Latest News
