Arqash Zaffar, 41, faces a trial at Birmingham Crown Court accused of exploiting and repeatedly raping a 16-year-old girl who had run away from a care home. Zaffar admits picking up the girl in Birmingham in July 2019 and acknowledges that she performed oral sex on him twice within 48 hours. However, he vehemently denies allegations of rape, facilitating her exploitation, or allowing sexual abuse by others.
During his testimony, Zaffar described accusations of raping the girl at a friend’s home in Manchester as a “disgusting accusation.” He recounted meeting the girl on Alum Rock Road, where she told him she was 20 years old. The prosecution alleges that after picking up two other men, Shiraz Nassar and Shahban Arif, they all traveled to Manchester. Zaffar denies that Nassar raped the girl or that any sexual acts occurred in the presence of other men, labeling such behavior “not normal” and asserting his traditional views on intimacy.
Zaffar explained that the group spent time socializing in Nassar’s apartment before returning toward Birmingham. Arif booked a hotel room at Metro Inns, Walsall, for the girl, who was homeless, had nowhere to stay, and had suffered abuse at home. Zaffar claims he helped her by arranging the hotel room and briefly lying with her for comfort. He stated that their interaction included kissing and consensual oral sex after the girl informed him she was on her period.
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The following day, Zaffar said they spent time together, including a restaurant visit with acquaintances. He dropped the girl off near Birmingham’s Bullring when she mentioned a probation appointment. He attempted to contact her afterward but received no response.
Zaffar was arrested in October 2020 and on legal advice issued a statement calling the allegations a “setup.” He maintains his innocence, insisting the accusations are false and aimed at framing him unjustly.
Alongside Zaffar, co-defendants Shiraz Nassar, Shahban Arif, and Mohammed Nadim face various charges related to the case. All have pleaded not guilty. The trial continues.