The UK government is set to change immigration law to allow for the deportation of Shabir Ahmed, the ringleader of a notorious Rochdale grooming gang, who was released on license last week. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is expected to announce plans to amend the 1971 Immigration Act, which currently prevents Ahmed's removal from the UK due to his status as a Commonwealth citizen who arrived before 1973.

Ahmed, aged 73, was sentenced to 22 years in prison in August 2012 for multiple child sexual offenses, including rape. His conviction led to him being stripped of his British citizenship, leaving him with dual British-Pakistani nationality. The existing immigration legislation bars the deportation of Commonwealth citizens who arrived in the UK before 1973 and have resided in the country for at least five years.

Following his release, Ahmed has been placed in 24-hour staffed accommodation and fitted with an electronic GPS tag. He is subject to stringent license conditions, including exclusion zones, a curfew, and mandatory registration as a sex offender. The Home Office has stated that any breach of these conditions would result in his immediate return to prison.

The planned legal amendment follows pressure from opposition parties and concern from victims. Chris Philp, the Conservative shadow home secretary, had urged the government to support an amendment to the Immigration and Asylum Bill that would facilitate Ahmed's deportation. Home Office minister Alex Norris had previously assured MPs that the government would continue its efforts to deport Ahmed for his crimes.

It remains unclear how long the legislative process will take, with one government source suggesting it could be up to a year. Furthermore, there is currently no agreement in place with Pakistan to facilitate Ahmed's return to the country. The case highlights the complexities of deporting individuals with dual nationality and long-standing ties to the UK.

Ahmed was one of nine men convicted for exploiting girls as young as 13 in Rochdale. The case has brought renewed attention to the devastating impact of grooming gangs on young victims. Billy Howarth, a campaigner supporting two of Ahmed's victims, described their current state of crisis and fear, stating they consider him the most evil man they know.

Victims of the grooming gang learned of Ahmed's release through social media, adding to their distress. The government's announcement signals a determination to address the legal barriers that have prevented the deportation of individuals convicted of serious offenses, particularly those involving the exploitation of children.

The government's move is expected to be welcomed by victims' advocates and those calling for tougher measures against offenders. However, the practicalities of changing the law and securing international cooperation for deportation remain significant challenges.