The Old Bailey Crown Court has announced its verdict in the Sara Sharif murder case, sentencing Sara's father, Irfan Sharif, and her stepmother, Beinash Batool, to life imprisonment.
During the hearing, Judge John Cavanagh remarked that Sara Sharif endured abuse in front of the family, while her uncle, Faisal Malik, witnessed the incidents but did not intervene. The judge expressed disappointment that none of the accused showed any remorse for their actions.
The court highlighted that Irfan Sharif continued to deny the violence for six days despite clear evidence. Both Beinash Batool and Irfan Sharif chose to remain silent throughout the trial.
Judge Cavanagh noted that even after completing their minimum sentence, parole authorities will determine their release, with no guarantees of freedom. Upon release, they will remain on license for life, and any violation of the terms will result in their return to prison.
The court revealed that Sara's body showed 71 fresh injuries, indicating they occurred days before her death, along with evidence of older injuries. The abuse reportedly began when Sara was around 6 or 7 years old.
Addressing Beinash Batool, Judge Cavanagh stated, “You did not care for Sara because she was your stepdaughter,” emphasizing that her neglect played a significant role in the young girl’s tragic death.
The judge also criticized Faisal Malik, Sara's uncle, for witnessing the abuse but failing to report it, which further contributed to the neglect that led to her death.
On December 11, a jury consisting of nine women and three men found all three accused guilty. Irfan Sharif and Beinash Batool were convicted of murder, while Faisal Malik was found guilty of causing or allowing the murder of his niece.
Judge Cavanagh announced that the sentencing for all three culprits would take place on December 17, describing the case as “very stressful and traumatic.”
The accused—41-year-old Irfan Sharif, 29-year-old Beinash Batool, and 28-year-old Faisal Malik—were charged following their return to the UK from Pakistan. They were arrested upon their arrival in London and initially denied the accusations. However, during cross-examination, they accepted responsibility for Sara’s death.
The court ultimately charged them with murder and causing or allowing the death of a child.
