Nine men in court over historical child sexual exploitation

Kevin Lawrence, 54, of Dunoon, is charged with two counts of conspiring to rape a woman aged 16 years or over, and causing the prostitution of a woman.

Sheikh Mohammed Tahir Ullah, 73, of Newport, is charged with one count of rape of a female aged 16 years or over, and one count of rape of a female under 16.

Aminur Rahman Chowdhury, 58, of Tottenham, is charged with one count of rape of a female aged 16 years or over.

Shakeel Babur, 58, of Nelson, Lancashire, is charged with four counts of indecent assault on a girl under the age of 16

Murad Ali, 57, of Swansea, is charged with two counts of rape of a female under 16.

Mohammed Ramzan, 76, of Newport, is charged with two counts of rape of a female under 16, three counts of indecent assault on a girl under the age of 16, causing the prostitution of a girl under sixteen, and conspiring to rape a girl under the age of 16.

Gwent police has said the inquiry is focused on allegations made by eight women of sexual abuse committed against them as children over a period of 11 years.

Some of the charges of rape relate to multiple incidents of rape, the force said.

Det Ch Supt Andrew Tuck previously said: “It is vital for the victims in this case, and for the integrity of the investigation, that nothing is posted on social media that could affect the court proceedings.”

“Anyone who reports child abuse will be taken seriously. We urge anyone who has experienced abuse, or who is concerned that someone may be suffering, to come forward.

“We will listen, investigate all offences and make sure you can access the help and support you need.”