Oldham Man Convicted of Brutally Murdering Estranged Wife in Bradford City Centre
A man from Oldham has been found guilty of murdering his estranged wife, Kulsuma Akter, in a brutal daylight knife attack as she pushed her baby in a pram through Bradford city centre last April.
Habibur Masum, 26, of Leamington Avenue, Burnley, was convicted today at court of murder, assault by beating, making a threat to kill, and stalking following a trial.
The killing occurred on Saturday, 6 April 2024, shortly after 3:20pm on Westgate, Bradford, when 27-year-old Kulsuma was stabbed multiple times, including in the neck, in front of horrified onlookers and her baby son.
Attack Caught on CCTV
West Yorkshire Police said Masum was captured on CCTV committing the attack before fleeing the scene on foot. A national manhunt was launched, and Masum was arrested by armed Thames Valley Police officers in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, three days later in the early hours of Tuesday, 9 April.
He was returned to West Yorkshire and charged with multiple offences related to the murder.
Kulsuma’s Death
Emergency services rushed to the scene, and members of the public bravely attempted to save Kulsuma before paramedics arrived. Despite their efforts, she died of her injuries later in hospital.
A post-mortem examination confirmed that Kulsuma suffered multiple stab wounds, inflicted with a kitchen knife, including fatal injuries to her neck.
Detectives from West Yorkshire Police’s Homicide and Major Enquiry Team led the investigation.
Police Statement
A spokesperson for West Yorkshire Police said:
“This was a horrific and public act of violence that shocked the community. Our thoughts remain with Kulsuma’s family, particularly her child, who now faces life without their mother. The bravery of those who intervened and tried to help Kulsuma is a testament to the strength of our communities.”
Sentencing Date Set
Masum, who was remanded in custody, will be sentenced on 22 July 2025. He faces a likely life sentence for the murder.
