A barrister from Huddersfield has been convicted of facilitating a violent retaliation linked to a drugs gang feud, a case that has shocked legal circles and raised concerns about professional conduct in the legal profession. Samreen Akhtar, 37, was found guilty at Manchester Crown Court of intentionally encouraging or assisting grievous bodily harm with intent, a charge that can carry a life sentence. Sentencing is scheduled for September 7.
Prosecutors said Akhtar used her knowledge and professional contacts to assist Tabish Ali, a convicted career criminal involved in a long-running drug-related turf war in Huddersfield, in identifying and targeting a rival gang member. The attack took place in 2020 and resulted in the death of Jamal Nedd, a member of the rival Fartown Boys drug gang. Ali, then 29, was later convicted of murder alongside brothers Sheraz and Hamad Hussain. All three have been serving life sentences since their trial at Leeds Crown Court in 2022.
The court heard that the violence was part of an ongoing cycle of retribution between rival factions vying for territory in the local drug trade. Judge Guy Kearl KC described the events as a “battle of supremacy” and noted that the attack in which Akhtar was involved was carried out as revenge for earlier assaults targeting Ali's gang.
Akhtar had previously established herself as a prominent barrister and advocate for black and Asian lawyers facing barriers in the legal profession. She often spoke about her working-class upbringing and Pashtun heritage, and encouraged aspiring female lawyers to persevere despite challenges. A spokesperson for the Bar Standards Council confirmed that Akhtar has been suspended from practice pending a disciplinary hearing, which is expected to take place within the coming weeks.
She was arrested in 2023 and initially allowed to continue practising while the case progressed, but her suspension came into effect on July 3, coinciding with the start of her trial. Some legal professionals expressed dismay at her ability to continue working during the proceedings, highlighting the gravity of the charges she faced.
It remains unclear what motivated Akhtar, who had a promising career, to become involved in the criminal activity, putting both her future and personal safety at serious risk. Her conviction marks a significant fall from grace for a barrister who once championed diversity and inclusion within the legal field.