The tragic case of 10-year-old Sara Sharif has come to a close as her father, stepmother, and uncle were found guilty of her murder in a harrowing trial that shocked the UK and drew global attention.
Sara was discovered lifeless in her Woking home in August 2023, her body bearing extensive injuries, including broken bones, burns, and bite marks. Her father, Urfan Sharif, 42, and stepmother, Beinash Batool, 30, were convicted of murder, while her uncle, Faisal Malik, 29, was found guilty of causing or allowing her death.
The family had fled to Pakistan the day before her body was discovered, leaving behind a chilling handwritten note from Sharif admitting he had “lost it” but claimed he did not intend to kill his daughter. A month later, they were arrested upon their return to the UK.
During the trial, Sharif confessed to inflicting injuries on Sara in the weeks leading up to her death, including beating her with a cricket bat, binding her with tape, and strangling her. Despite the overwhelming evidence, all three family members initially denied their charges, showing no remorse throughout the proceedings.
Evidence presented in court revealed Sara endured unimaginable abuse. A post-mortem examination identified at least 25 broken bones, and investigators found blood-stained objects and plastic bag hoods that fit her head during a search of the family home.
The case also highlighted failures in safeguarding. Sara’s school raised concerns after noticing injuries on her face, referring the matter to child services. However, no further action was taken, and shortly afterward, Sharif withdrew her from school for homeschooling. These lapses left Sara vulnerable to the escalating abuse that ultimately led to her death.
Libby Clark from the Crown Prosecution Service described the case as “appalling and brutal,” emphasizing that Sara’s short life was cut short by those who should have protected her. Outside the court, Surrey Police expressed deep distress over the case, labeling it one of the most challenging investigations in the force’s history.
Sara’s former teacher remembered her as a vibrant, bubbly girl, full of energy and confidence, making the tragedy of her untimely death even more poignant.
The sentencing for this heartbreaking case will take place next week, offering some closure to a story that has left a deep scar on all who followed it.
