Nigerian Armed Robber Avoids Deportation Due to Mental Health Claims
A Nigerian criminal with a history of armed robbery and drug offenses avoided deportation from the UK, as a judge ruled that he could not receive adequate mental health treatment in his home country. His belief in being ‘possessed’ influenced the decision, exemplifying a larger trend where foreign criminals use human rights laws to remain in the UK despite serious convictions.
A Nigerian man with a history of armed robbery and crack cocaine dealing remains in the UK, having avoided deportation due to claims of being ‘possessed’. Initially imprisoned in 2011 for armed robbery, he was later incarcerated again for drug offenses. A deportation order issued in 2014 was contested on human rights grounds, leading to his current status. A judge acknowledged that returning him to Nigeria would not provide adequate mental health treatment, given his belief that his mental illness stems from possession.
This case highlights a troubling trend where foreign criminals leverage human rights legislation to evade deportation. Previous cases reported by The Telegraph include an Albanian criminal avoiding deportation due to family matters and a Pakistani child sex offender spared removal because it would be detrimental to his children. The unnamed Nigerian man, currently residing in a secure mental health facility, is considered a high risk to the community due to his ongoing addiction and mental health issues, yet has been allowed to integrate back into society.
In a recent ruling, Judge Stephen Smith stated that the man’s belief in possession could intensify negative perceptions of his mental health in Nigeria. Reports indicated that upon his return, he might encounter a society that not only disbelieves in mental health but also sees it as demonic. A medical evaluation confirmed that he experiences significant trauma-related symptoms, including intrusive memories and nightmares attributed to perceived demonic forces.
The judge emphasized the need to compare the mental health care available in Nigeria with that which the man currently receives in the UK. The criminal expressed his desire to reform, stating, “I really want to stay away from crime. I do not wish to find myself in that situation again… I want to live a normal life.” His community interactions have included regular exercise and volunteer work.
Alp Mehmet of Migration Watch UK voiced concerns about the implications of this situation, questioning why the UK should be responsible for addressing the health issues of foreign criminals. He argued that it is unjust for the country to handle the mental health care of someone with a serious criminal background. The legal proceedings may continue as a new hearing is anticipated.
The case of the Nigerian armed robber who escaped deportation underscores the complex intersection of mental health, criminality, and human rights legislation in the UK. Court rulings have prioritized the appellant’s psychological condition over public safety concerns, suggesting that mental health treatment disparities drive deportation outcomes. Experts and commentators alike express apprehension regarding the implications of such decisions on national policy and public safety.
Original Source: www.telegraph.co.uk
