Bury North MP James Frith has said reports claiming convicted child sex offender Shabir Ahmed is living in Bury are false.
James Frith said he contacted Greater Manchester Police after becoming aware of reports alleging that Shabir Ahmed, who was convicted for his role in the Rochdale child sexual exploitation scandal, had been released into Bury.
He said police confirmed the claims were incorrect.
According to James Frith, Ahmed's release has been managed by the Probation Service and he has been located outside Greater Manchester.
James Frith said, "I've seen the deeply concerning reports claiming that Rochdale grooming gang leader Shabir Ahmed is in Bury. I immediately sought urgent reassurance from Greater Manchester Police.
"I can now confirm that those claims are completely false.
"Shabir Ahmed's release has been managed by the Probation Service, and he has been located outside Greater Manchester."
James Frith said his first thoughts were with victims and survivors of child sexual exploitation, adding that the circulation of false information had caused further distress.
He said, "The spread of false rumours and deliberate online speculation only compounds that trauma.
"Those who knowingly spread misinformation on matters as serious as this should reflect on the harm they cause. It fuels fear, undermines public confidence and, above all, inflicts further suffering on victims and their families. Victims continue to have appropriate safeguarding measures in place supported by Greater Manchester Police."
James Frith also said he believed Ahmed should be deported following his release from prison.
He said, "While I am relieved that this vile child sex offender is not in Bury, the fact remains that he has been released from prison. He has no place remaining in this country. He should be deported without delay, and I welcome the Government's action to ensure that happens as quickly as possible."
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