04/10/2006

Judges in blackmail case face investigation

Two judges involved in a blackmail trial are to face an investigation by the Office for Judicial Complaints.

Immigration judges Mohammed Ilyas Khan, 60, and his female colleague - known only as J - will not be allowed to sit while the investigation takes place.

The move follows a trial involving Brazilian cleaner Roselane Driza. The 37-year-old, who had worked illegally for both judges, was cleared of blackmailing Judge Khan but found guilty of blackmailing Judge J.

During the trial , the court heard how Driza had found two intimate videos of the two judges, who had been lovers. The court also heard how Driza had also had an affair with Judge Khan.

Driza was remanded in custody until October 20 for pre-sentencing reports.

A statement by the Department for Constitutional Affairs said that the Lord Chancellor and Lord Chief Justice were concerned about the allegation that both judges had employed Driza when she was ineligible to work in the UK.

(KMcA)

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