Deputy council leader steps down ‘temporarily’ over national newspaper allegations

Reports claimed Cllr Akhtar assisted the “handover” of the 14-year-old to police by his distant relative, Arshid Hussain, after she was reported missing in 2000.

The Times newspaper said Cllr Akhtar, then a taxi driver, knew about the relationship between Hussain and the girl, who is understood to have twice been made pregnant.

Cllr Akhtar strongly denied the allegations but has stepped down while a police investigation takes place.

He said: “I am standing down temporarily as deputy leader of Rotherham Council and as vice chairman of the Police and Crime Panel as a matter of courtesy to those agencies to resolve any enquiry as quickly as possible.”

A council spokesman said: “We have referred the allegations made in The Times newspaper relating to Cllr Akhtar to South Yorkshire Police to consider if any criminal offence has been committed and to undertake any appropriate criminal investigation.”

Hussain, then 24, was never prosecuted for a child sexual offence. Social services even allowed him daily contact with the girl after she was taken into care.

South Yorkshire Police confirmed an investigation had been opened.

Police Commissioner Shaun Wright said: “The allegations about the way in which various agencies failed to adequately combat child sexual exploitation and protect vulnerable victims 14 years ago concerns me deeply.

“I will be seeking assurances from the Chief Constable and other agencies that all allegations of such crimes are thoroughly investigated and victims are fully supported.”