UK Police Under Pressure to Disclose Immigration Status of Charged Warwickshire Rape Suspects

Nigel Farage and Home Secretary Suella Braverman have called for greater transparency regarding the immigration status of suspects charged with serious crimes, following the arrest of two men in connection with the alleged rape of a 12-year-old girl in Warwickshire. Farage criticized the police for not releasing details about the suspects, describing the withholding of such information as a "cover-up" reminiscent of the aftermath of last year's Southport killings, where lack of disclosure led to public unrest and speculation. The suspects, reportedly Afghan nationals, have been charged with rape and related offenses but Warwickshire Police have cited national guidance that prevents sharing ethnicity or immigration status. Braverman suggested reviewing police guidance to allow more disclosure, referencing previous high-profile terrorism cases where suspects' immigration status was made public. Police and the Warwickshire Police and Crime Commissioner emphasized adherence to legal requirements and national guidance in decisions about releasing suspect information. Farage and others argue that releasing such information is not contempt of court and is necessary to maintain public trust and prevent misinformation.