Scottish paedophile abused girls in Thailand and left indecent images

A Scotsman has admitted serious sexual abuse of a child and possession of indecent images of children.

Ian Heddle, originally from Dunfermline, pleaded guilty at the High Court in Glasgow on Tuesday, June 11. The 61-year-old, who lives in Thailand, was arrested and charged in Scotland on Sunday, February 19, 2023, with possession of indecent images of children.

After investigations, it was found that he had also sexually abused the young girl in the Asian country. He was arrested and charged on Saturday, September 23, 2023.

Detective Inspector Adrian Ure, of the National Child Abuse Investigations Unit, said: “We understand how distressing this has been for the girl and her family. We hope that the fact that he has now pleaded guilty will at least provide them with some comfort.”

“Police Scotland are committed to protecting children and were able to prosecute Heddle under legislation that protects children anywhere in the world from sexual abuse by British nationals.

“We will continue to relentlessly target and proactively investigate individuals who commit these heinous crimes. I also want to reassure our communities that we will investigate all reports of sexual abuse. We will listen to you and support you.

“I urge anyone who has been a victim of a crime of this nature to call us on 101 or 999 in an emergency.”

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