'I am now free' says woman as 'monster' parents jailed in Leeds over forced marriage

The man was sent to prison for four-and-a-half years at Leeds Crown Court on Monday and his wife was jailed for three-and-a-half years by a judge who heard that their 18-year-old daughter had to be rescued from a remote village in a dramatic operation by the British High Commission involving armed police.

-> Revealed: Every Leeds takeaway and business with zero star food hygiene ratingsNone of those involved can be named.

In an impact statement read to the court, the woman, who is from Leeds and is now 20, described how she has had to assume a new identity and now lives in fear and hiding from her family and community.

She said: "I know I will always have to remain cautious but, knowing those monsters are going to be in prison, I feel the uttermost freedom in my heart."

She went on: "I want other girls to know that forcing someone to marry is wrong.

-> Five arrested in Leeds armed robbery probe following Armley police raid"I want to be able to give a message to my siblings and other people who find themselves in this situation that life does go on.

"I want my elders to know that it is illegal and you can't treat family like this.

"I want to be able to hold my head high knowing that I stood up for what is right.

"I want to be able to live knowing that I will not be a victim for my parents' honour and reputation.

"I will not live in shame. I am now free."