Father Jailed for Life Over Shocking Murder of Young Sara Sharif
In a chilling case that has rocked the nation, Urfan Sharif has been sentenced to life in prison with a minimum of 40 years for the brutal murder of his daughter, Sara Sharif. The shocking verdict came after a grueling trial laid bare the horrific abuse Sara suffered from a very young age.
Nightmare Childhood: Abuse Started at Age Six
Judge Mr Justice Cavanagh revealed creepy details of the torment Sara endured. From as young as six or seven, Sara was battered and forced into servitude, with no justification whatsoever. The judge slammed Sara’s stepmother, Beinash Batool, for turning a blind eye — or worse — because Sara wasn’t her biological child. Batool masked Sara’s bruises with make-up and even pulled her out of school to keep the abuse under wraps.
Sinister Abuse and Shocking Cover-Up
- Endless Labour: Sara was treated like a “skivvy,” tasked with chores and looking after her younger brother since childhood.
- Education Denied: The family claimed homeschooling but used it to hide the mistreatment and keep Sara isolated.
- Hidden Injuries: Sara was forced to wear a hijab not for faith but to conceal bruises all over her body.
The judge blasted Batool for her cold-hearted disregard, accusing her of sacrificing Sara to protect her other children. She was sentenced to life with a minimum of 33 years. Batool actively aided the abuse and even called Urfan whenever Sara caused “trouble” — knowing it meant another cruel beating.
Family’s Grim Role: Uncle Also Sentenced
Sara’s uncle, Faisal Malik, was found guilty of causing or allowing her death. Despite claiming ignorance, saying he was too busy on his phone, the judge labelled his defence “preposterous.” Malik received a life sentence with a minimum of 16 years for his role in the horror.
Horrific Injuries Discovered
A devastating post-mortem exposed the full extent of Sara’s suffering. She bore at least 71 fresh injuries, including severe bruises and abrasions days before her death. Shocking evidence revealed 25 separate fractures — many rare in a child. Horrifically, Sara had been branded on her buttocks with an iron, a torturous act that required two people. She also suffered open burn wounds, likely from boiling water or a hot pipe.
The judge slammed the family for never seeking medical help, leaving Sara to endure unimaginable pain and neglect. This tragic case has ignited urgent calls for stronger protection and intervention to safeguard vulnerable children from abuse.
