Imam who raped children and claimed he had supernatural powers jailed for life

An imam who claimed he had supernatural powers to prey on vulnerable women and girls as young as 12 has been jailed for life with a minimum term of 20 years. Abdul Halim Khan, 54, abused his position as a trusted faith leader to sexually assault seven women and girls from the Muslim community between 2005 and 2014, Snaresbrook Crown Court heard. Prosecutors said Khan was an imam at a mosque who persuaded each of the victims into meeting him at isolated places including flats and quiet, hidden locations. He would then rape or sexually abuse the victims while claiming he was possessed or disguised as a jinn (supernatural spirit), the court heard. The victims felt forced to keep the abuse a secret from family and friends over fears they would be harmed through "black magic", prosecutors said. Judge Leslie Cuthbert, sentencing, said: "Behind a public appearance of propriety and holiness you took monstrous advantage of women who trusted you, all for your own sexual satisfaction. "You brazenly raped and sexually assaulted seven females - both children and young women. You behaved as if you were untouchable. "You were confident that none of the victims, who came from the same community in which you were an imam, would overcome the potential shame and stigma they might sadly feel, or be exposed to, by reporting you. "You were confident that if they did come forward it would be you and not they who would be believed." This is a Breaking News story. You’ll be more likely to see our stories when any big news breaks in future by simply by clicking this link . You can also join The Mirror’s WhatsApp Community or follow us on Google News , Flipboard , Apple News , TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads - or visit The Mirror homepage .