Report: Pakistani-origin sex gangs men target white British girls
A report from the Quilliam group, a UK-based anti-extremism think tank, claims that gangs of Pakistani-origin men are targeting white girls in the UK. According to Quilliam, these gangs "lure" girls with drugs and alcohol before subjecting them to rape and sexual abuse. Since 2011, several Pakistani-origin men from so-called "grooming gangs" have been prosecuted for targeting British girls. Here's more.
What did the study find?
Quilliam studied 58 cases relating to grooming gangs in the UK between 2005-2017, which ultimately resulted in 264 convictions. 222 out of 264 of those convicted were found to be Asian men, and more prominently of Pakistani origin. "The findings are in stark contrast to the fact that Asians make up only seven percent of the UK population," the study observed.
Quilliam: "Alarmed and dismayed" over research findings
The Quilliam group seeks to integrate British Pakistanis into modern UK society. "We began thinking we would debunk the media narrative that Asians are over-represented in this specific crime. But, when the final numbers came in we were alarmed and dismayed," said Quilliam's Muna Adil.
Why are they targeting white girls in the UK?
According to the study, members of grooming gangs viewed women belonging to Asian communities as "protected." Moreover, culturally, their "chastity" was viewed as intrinsically linked to "family honor." In comparison, white women were seen as "easy targets" and "open to sexual relationships with a little persuasion." A common view among grooming gang members is that their sexual abuse is acceptable and justified.
How should these gangs be dealt with?
British media, in recent times, have been rife with reports on South Asian "grooming gangs" who prey on white girls. This has led for many to fear South Asian men. Right-wing bigots use these instances to vilify immigrants. The report calls for greater governmental participation to integrate Asian-origin men into British society and to prevent bigots from using these instances to fuel hate.
