A 27-year-old Indian student, identified as Bilal Kazi, has been sentenced to 30 years in prison by the Chester Crown Court in north-west England. Kazi, who was a PhD chemistry student at the University of Chester and previously studied chemical engineering at Birmingham University, was convicted of a series of offences related to child sexual abuse and exploitation conducted over the internet.
Authorities described Kazi as a "serial online groomer" who operated by creating a fake profile of a blond-haired teenage boy named 'Reece' on social media and gaming platforms. By feigning a romantic interest, he gained the trust of victims aged between 10 and 15. The court heard that he coerced these children into producing sexually explicit photos and videos. When victims attempted to cease communication or refused his demands, Kazi blackmailed them by threatening to distribute the explicit material to others.
Investigations led by UK authorities, which began in 2021 after images of a victim were circulated on social media, identified at least 71 victims. However, prosecutors and investigators believe the true scale of his activity could involve as many as 180 victims. The court was informed of the severe impact on his victims, including one 13-year-old who attempted suicide after Kazi shared an explicit video of her that was seen by approximately 100 of her acquaintances.
Kazi was initially arrested at Heathrow Airport in July 2023 upon returning from Kuwait. Following the seizure of devices containing hundreds of indecent images, he was released on bail. Police later discovered he had purchased a new mobile phone to continue targeting children while on bail, leading to his final arrest and remand in custody in August 2025. According to reports, Kazi had also been overstaying his student visa.
Key facts
- Bilal Kazi was sentenced to 30 years in prison at Chester Crown Court for child sexual abuse.
- He used a fake online identity to groom victims as young as 10 years old.
- Forensic examination of his devices revealed over 900 indecent images and videos.
- Investigations confirmed at least 71 victims, though authorities suspect the number could reach 180.
- Kazi was arrested three times, finally being remanded in custody in August 2025.
Why it matters
Judge Steven Everett noted that Kazi exploited a lack of adequate security measures on social media platforms that should have protected children. The case has highlighted the dangers of online grooming and the long-term psychological trauma inflicted on victims who believed they were interacting with peers in safe environments.
Background
Kazi was originally from Mumbai and had been residing in Birmingham while pursuing his doctoral studies in the UK before his legal proceedings.
Source: Hindustan Times, Times of India
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