Urfan Sharif, the father of 10-year-old Sara Sharif who was found dead in her bunk bed in 2023, has admitted in court to beating her with a cricket bat and a metal pole. He took full responsibility for her death after previously lying to protect himself. Sharif, along with his wife Beinash Batool and brother Faisal Malik, are on trial for a violent campaign of abuse before Sara’s death.
The family fled to Pakistan after allegedly killing Sara before returning a month later and being arrested. During the trial at the Old Bailey, Sharif confessed to being a bad father and selfish for lying about the circumstances of his daughter’s death. He admitted to previously blaming his wife for Sara’s death before accepting responsibility.
A postmortem examination revealed Sara had fractures and 71 external injuries, including burns and human bite marks. Sharif tearfully admitted to lying in front of the jury but claimed he was telling the truth about not abusing Sara’s mother and two other girlfriends. The prosecution pointed out that all three women alleged being locked up and having their passports taken away by Sharif.
Sharif, Batool, and Malik all deny murder and causing or allowing the death of a child. The trial is ongoing, with Sharif acknowledging his lack of credibility and expressing regrets over his actions. The case highlights the tragic consequences of domestic abuse and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable.
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