A RESTAURATEUR is under investigation after allegations of rape and sexual touching were made against him.

Police are carrying out two investigations against Shibbir Ahmed.

Ahmed, who helps run Tandoori Villa in Stanway, has not been charged with, or convicted of, any crimes.

An interim sexual risk order has been imposed on Mr Ahmed, 56, of Coronation Avenue, Colchester, while police investigate the allegations.

It was imposed following an application by Essex Police at Colchester Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.

A sexual risk order can be made against any individual who may pose a risk.

The purpose is to protect the public against a possible risk.

A representative from Essex Police made the request, on behalf of the Chief Constable, claiming Mr Ahmed is a risk and the order is necessary.

Paul Baker, defending Mr Ahmed, stated while there are investigations there are no charges or convictions and he urged the court to be careful restricting liberty too much or for too long.

Judge John Woollard decided to impose an interim order until May while the investigations continue.

He said: “The investigations by police officers are for serious offences of rape and sexual touching including suggestions he has attempted to engage with children under the age of 18 for the purposes of sexual gratification.

“The making of the order is a balancing act.”

The hearing was told it is alleged Mr Ahmed took young women back to the restaurant.

Mr Ahmed is banned from having unsupervised contact with any person under 18 other than his own daughter or children whose parents and guardians are aware of the order and ongoing investigation.

He is also not allowed to offer gifts or lifts to girls aged under 18 other than the exceptions stated.

In May, the police will have to go back to the court and before Judge Woollard who will then decide if the order continues or ends.

If the investigations are concluded and closed the order can be lifted.

If charges follow the order may be replaced by bail or other court conditions.

The court heard Mr Ahmed is part of the family-run business at the restaurant but not the registered owner.

A spoksman for Esssex Police said: "A 56-year-old man from Colchester was arrested on October 21 on suspicion of rape.

"The offence was reported to have taken place in Colchester sometime between January and February, 2016, and was reported to police in October.

"He was later arrested on December 30 on suspicion of sexual assault.

"The offence was reported to have taken place in Colchester in July and was reported to police in October.

"He is currently on bail until March 1, pending further enquiries."