Man Jailed for Life Over Brutal Murder of Toddler Nusayba
Haider Found Guilty at Old Bailey
On Monday, 28 March, Syed Mohammed Kamran Haider, 40, from Colinton Road, Ilford, was found guilty of murdering little Nusayba Bint-Umar and child cruelty. Just two days later, at the Old Bailey, he was sentenced in absentia to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 20 years for the murder, plus 18 months for child cruelty. Both sentences will run concurrently.
Tragic Timeline of Abuse and Neglect
Detective Chief Inspector Larry Smith led the relentless investigation into Nusayba’s death. Haider had met Nusayba’s mother on a dating website in August 2019. The mother and child moved into his Ilford home under the promise of financial help caring for puppies. Instead, the relationship was marred by domestic violence and threats.
On 28 August 2019, Nusayba was hurt while in Haider’s care. Despite a head injury and swelling, Haider refused to call an ambulance, suggesting instead a baby pen. The mother had to arrange a taxi to take Nusayba to hospital, where she stayed overnight before being discharged.
Just weeks later, on 13 September, Haider was heard slapping Nusayba and silencing her cries. The mother’s concern grew, and she called an ambulance after leaving the home. Nusayba was rushed to hospital but tragically died on 17 September 2019 from a traumatic head injury caused by Haider, according to the post-mortem.
Family’s Heartbreaking Statements
Nusayba’s grieving father revealed:
“This one event has ripped my life apart and I will never recover. I do not sleep. I lost around 15kg in weight when she died. I dreamt of my daughter growing into a good Muslim. That was taken away.”
Nusayba’s mother said:
“She suffered horrific abuse. The noise she made on her last day haunts me forever. I’ll never see her grow up or experience the simple joys of motherhood like changing her nappy or hearing her first words. These memories now break my heart every day.”
Investigation and Closing Comments
Haider was arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm, later charged with murder after thorough medical enquiries. He appeared at Barkingside Magistrates’ Court in December 2020 and was remanded.
Detective Chief Inspector Larry Smith said:
“Haider is a controlling, violent individual prone to extreme aggression. Nusayba was the innocent victim of his violence, suffering fatal injuries. While the exact events of 13 September remain unclear, it is certain his actions caused her death. Her family will grieve for years, and we will continue to support them. My team worked tirelessly to bring Haider to justice. He now faces decades behind bars to reflect on his horrific crimes.”
