Seven men have been formally charged with over 40 offences connected to the sexual exploitation of 11 teenagers in Bristol. The arrests came on Tuesday as part of a targeted operation by Avon and Somerset Police, and all seven appeared at Bristol Magistrates Court on Wednesday.
Police said the alleged abuse occurred between 2022 and 2025, with all victims under 18 at the time. The investigation, which began in November 2023 after concerns were raised about the exploitation of one teenage girl, eventually uncovered a broader pattern of abuse affecting multiple victims.
Detective Chief Inspector Tom Herbert, the lead investigator, described the probe as “complex and sensitive investigation which has the protection of young girls from exploitation at its very heart.”
He added, “Working with our partners, we've ensured the most appropriate safeguarding measures and support has been made available to each victim to protect them from harm. Officers have been working around the clock to identify potential offences, and we've worked extremely closely with the Crown Prosecution Service to reach this highly significant stage.”
Charges in Detail
The police outlined the specific offences linked to each suspect:
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Hussain Bashar, 19, from Southmead, Bristol, is charged with one count of rape.
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Mohamed Arafe, 19, from Speedwell, Bristol, faces sexual assault, causing or inciting the sexual exploitation of a child, and five counts of arranging or facilitating the sexual exploitation of a child. He also faces charges of supplying cocaine and ecstasy.
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Sina Omari, 20, from Fishponds, Bristol, is accused of two counts of rape, four counts of arranging or facilitating sexual exploitation of a child, creating indecent images of a child, and supplying Class A drugs.
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Wadie Sharaf, 21, from Redland, Bristol, faces charges of rape, attempted rape, sexual assault, and sexual activity with a child.
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Mohammed Kurdi, 21, from Henbury, Bristol, is charged with two counts of rape, two counts of arranging or facilitating child exploitation, and supplying ecstasy and cannabis.
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Sardam Ahmed, 19, Iraqi, faces four counts of rape, arranging or facilitating child sexual exploitation, distributing indecent photographs, and involvement in drug supply.
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Ihab Al-Eisawi, from Fishponds, Bristol, has two counts of rape and one of sexual assault.
None of the accused entered pleas, and all were remanded in custody. They are due to appear at Bristol Crown Court on 17 December for plea and trial preparation hearings.
Police and Community Response
Superintendent Deepak Kenth said local officers have supported the investigation from the outset.
“We know this update will be a huge shock to our communities, and I want to reassure everyone that we will continue to work tirelessly to protect children from abuse and exploitation,” he said.
He also noted efforts with local businesses, taxi services, and hotels to increase awareness of exploitation signs and encourage reporting.
Deputy Chief Prosecutor James Bolton-Smith of the CPS emphasised the careful review of evidence before charges were filed.
“We remind all concerned that proceedings against the suspects are active and they have a right to a fair trial. It is vital that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in anyway prejudice these proceedings,” he said.
Police and Crime Commissioner Clare Moody urged the public to provide information through a dedicated appeal page. “My thoughts are with the victims of these very serious crimes,” she said. “Their courage in coming forward must be met with sensitivity and specialist support.”
