A Pakistani man convicted of drug offences has been allowed to remain in the United Kingdom after a tribunal ruled that his mental health conditions and past academic record created exceptional circumstances. The decision has triggered debate because the conviction involved a structured Class A and B drug operation.
Mental Health Played a Central Role
The tribunal examined the case of 22-year-old Muhammad Izhan, who had received a 30-month sentence for his role in a sophisticated drug network. However, judges found that deporting him to Pakistan could severely damage his mental health. This risk, they concluded, outweighed the arguments for his removal.
Medical records revealed that Izhan struggled with ADHD since his school years. He also developed behavioural problems linked to cannabis use. A consultant psychiatrist assessed him and confirmed that ADHD and other psychological issues significantly affected his decision-making. Because of this, the tribunal decided that deportation would likely worsen his mental state and push him towards further harmful behaviour.
A Complicated Personal History
Izhan moved to the UK at age seven with his family. Despite several disciplinary incidents in his early teens, he remained engaged in school life. He was also described as a former high-performing student who took part in sports, including rugby. Although he had previous cautions for shoplifting and was once suspended for carrying a knife into school, the tribunal noted that he still maintained strong academic involvement.
This background, combined with detailed medical assessments, influenced the ruling. The judge accepted that his family in Pakistan had limited awareness of his mental health condition. Because of this, reintegration in Pakistan would also pose serious challenges.
Tribunal Upholds Earlier Decision
The Home Office had ordered his deportation after his conviction in March 2024. However, Izhan won his first appeal. The higher tribunal later upheld the earlier ruling and stated that deporting him would create a high risk of mental health deterioration. Consequently, the tribunal determined that removing him from the UK was not justified under the circumstances.
Recent data shows that asylum applications from Pakistani nationals have risen sharply. Pakistanis now represent a notable share of new claims, surpassing applicants from several other countries. Although this case is not an asylum claim, it adds to ongoing discussions about the UK’s approach to deportation and individual rights.
