Police revealed that he used his position to abuse his victims.
A Sikh Granthi has admitted to historic sexual offences involving children committed in Hitchin, Hertfordshire.
Makhan Singh Mauji had previously denied the claims during his trial at Cambridge Crown Court.
A wide-sweeping investigation uncovered that the 71-year-old had preyed on his victims at a Gurdwara.
On November 14, 2024, Mauji admitted to the attempted rape of a child under 16, two counts of gross indecency of a child under 14, eight counts of indecent assault against a child under 14, and two counts of indecent assault against a child under 16.
Another charge of indecent assault against a child under 14 was ordered to lie on file.
These offences were committed between July 1983 and August 1987.
They occurred at several places in Hitchin, including at a Gurdwara.
Mauji was a Granthi, someone who leads daily worship services.
Police revealed that he used his position to abuse his victims.
Cambridge Crown Court heard the Sikh Granthi took advantage of his role to invade the lives of his victims in the Gurdwara and their own homes.
Mauji was released on bail and will be sentenced on December 20, 2024.
A judge imposed several conditions on his bail agreement. This includes Mauji surrendering his passport and obeying a curfew.
Detective Inspector Justine Jenkins, from the BCH (Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire) Major Crime Unit said:
“I cannot praise the brave victims who have come forward to bring Mauji to justice enough.
“This trial would have been difficult for the victims discussing incidents that have had long-lasting impacts on them.
“I hope that seeing Mauji being sentenced for his abhorrent crimes will help bring some closure to them.”
“We know it can be incredibly challenging to come forward to report incidents of sexual assault.
“We take reports of sexual offences very seriously and we will do everything we can to ensure that victims feel like their voices are heard and that offenders are brought to justice.
“If you want to report anything relating to this case please visit the Major Incident Portal.
“Anyone wishing to report a sexual assault will always be treated sensitively and with respect by us. We recognise how difficult it must be but please be assured we have specially trained officers who can help you every step of the way.”
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