A 24-year-old Hackney woman has been found guilty of manslaughter after the tragic death of her three-month-old baby daughter. The Met Police confirmed the grim verdict following a high-profile Old Bailey trial.
Nazli Merthoca Guilty, Partner Cleared
Nazli Merthoca, who lives on Homerton High Street, was convicted of manslaughter on Tuesday, 14 October. Her partner, Herbert Kalanzi, 35, from Newham, was cleared of all charges, including murder and manslaughter, related to the death of their daughter, Kaylani Kalanzi.
Shocking Attack and Cover-Up Revealed
- Baby Kaylani died at Great Ormond Street Hospital on 23 July 2024, after suffering severe brain injuries from violent shaking.
- Paramedics were called to the family home on 8 July after Merthoca claimed the infant had stopped breathing.
- Hospital staff noticed signs of physical abuse and immediately alerted police.
- Merthoca was arrested the next day for attempted murder and later remanded in custody.
- She initially denied any assault, claiming the baby suddenly fell ill under her care.
- Forensic experts confirmed Kaylani’s injuries came from blunt force trauma and shaking, contradicting Merthoca’s statements.
- Police seized her devices and uncovered a disturbing pattern of toxic and abusive behaviour presented at trial.
Detective Slams ‘Horrific Assault’ on Baby
“Merthoca carried out a horrific assault on her own child,” said Detective Inspector John Marriott. “She then tried to cover it up with lies to emergency services. Kaylani’s killing has left her family traumatised. The overwhelming medical and digital evidence secured justice in this heartbreaking case.”
Merthoca now faces sentencing at the Old Bailey on Monday, 15 December.
