Two Afghan Men Deny Rape, Kidnap Charges in Nuneaton Court

Two men, Ahmad Mulakhil and Mohammad Kabir, both 23-year-old Afghan nationals with no fixed address, have pleaded not guilty to multiple charges including the alleged abduction, rape, and sexual assault of a 12- or 13-year-old girl in Nuneaton. They appeared at Warwick Crown Court, assisted by Farsi and Pashto interpreters, and were remanded in custody ahead of a trial scheduled for January 26, 2026. The case has sparked controversy and public protests, with criticism from local council leader George Finch and Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, who accused authorities of a cover-up regarding the men's immigration status, which police declined to disclose citing national guidance. A protest outside Nuneaton Town Hall involved demonstrators holding St George's Cross and Union flags, facing off against counter-protesters opposing far-right rhetoric. Warwickshire Police have appealed for witnesses to come forward concerning the incident, which allegedly occurred on July 22. The trial is expected to last five days, with further court hearings scheduled before the trial date.