Rochdale Red Cross worker murder case moved over witness intimidation fears

A trial into the murder of Rochdale Red Cross Worker Khuram Shaikh is to be moved to Colombo amid fears that the main suspects are threatening witnesses, it has been reported.

Although no trial date has yet been set, the Sri Lankan media has reported that the Criminal Investigations Department is to move the case from Tangelle due to alleged threats to witnesses.

Khuram Shaikh, from Milnrow, was killed on holiday in Sri Lanka over Christmas in 2011. His girlfriend was allegedly raped in the attack with eight suspects arrested following the murder. They have subsequently been released on bail.

Commenting on the latest development, Rochdale MP Simon Danczuk said he had long been concerned about political interference in the case, but welcomed moves to transfer the investigation to Colombo.

“It is very disturbing to read reports alleging that suspects have been threatening witnesses in the case of my constituent Khuram Shaikh,” he said. “I hope the Sri Lankan authorities will step up their efforts and do everything possible to ensure that there is no political interference to stop justice running its course. The family has waited 18 months for justice and we want to see a trial without further delay.”

The main suspect in the case, a local politician with close ties to the President, has also told Sri Lankan media in the last week that the case was based on an international conspiracy to topple the Sri Lankan government.

“This is a desperate tactic,” said Mr Danczuk in response. “Khuram was killed in an appalling attack by a gang of cowards and the campaign to bring these people to justice has global support. Khuram’s work for the Red Cross touched the lives of many people and messages of support have not stopped coming in, even though it’s 18 months since he died.

“If Sri Lanka wants to be a fitting host of this year’s Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting then the authorities must do the right thing, uphold the rule of law and put Khuram’s killers behind bars, no matter who they are or what connections to power they have.”