1 week ago
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Urfan Sharif
, the father of 10-year-old Sara Sharif, admitted responsibility for his daughter's death in court on Wednesday. The testimony took place at the central criminalcourt of England and Wales, as reported by BBC news.
Urfan, 42, along with his wife
Beinash Batool
and brother
Faisal Malik
, are facing charges of murder and causing the death of a child. Sara's body was found in their home last year with over 71 injuries, including burns, bite marks, and broken bones.
Initially denying the charges, Urfan confessed during cross-examination that Sara's death was a result of his actions. “She died because of me,” he said. The court previously heard that Sara suffered years of abuse, including beatings and being burned, with injuries concealed by clothing and a hijab.
Urfan initially claimed Batool, her wife was responsible for Sara’s death. He said he made a false confession to protect his wife. However, Urfan retracted this statement on Wednesday. He admitted his earlier statements, both in a phone call to UK authorities and a written note, were true. “I admit what I said in my phone call and my written note. Every single word,” he said, confirming his role in Sara's abuse.
Urfan admitted to slapping Sara and using a cricket bat and metal pole. He denied burning or biting his daughter. Urfan blamed Batool for those actions, describing her as “evil” and “psycho.” He said Batool manipulated him and caused Sara's suffering. He claimed Batool bit the child “like an animal”, an act he denied committing.
“I should not have believed her... I didn’t realise I’m living with evil and a psycho,” Urfan said, pointing to his wife. He recounted finding Sara’s hands bound behind her with brown packaging tape, an act he attributed to Batool. “Sara was terrified,” he said.
Urfan worked as a taxi driver and was often away from home. He claimed he never knew the full extent of Sara’s injuries. He said they were hidden beneath long clothing. He also revealed that, before her death, Sara told him, “Dad, it’s not me. Whatever is happening at home, it’s Beinash.”
Forensic evidence
, including DNA found on a plastic bag and packaging tape, linked Urfan to the scene. His fingerprints were found on the bag and tape. He denied using the plastic bag as a hood on Sara.
The case continues, with Urfan, Batool, and Malik pleading not guilty to the charges.
