The tragic death of 10-year-old Sara Sharif has sent shockwaves through the UK, and the details emerging in court are heart-wrenching. Urfan Sharif, Sara’s father, has confessed to causing her death, but claims it was not intentional. This confession comes after months of denials and accusations directed at his wife, Beinash Batool.
Sharif’s admission, made under cross-examination at the Old Bailey, paints a horrifying picture of abuse. He revealed that he subjected Sara to brutal beatings over a period of weeks, including the night of her death, August 6, 2023. The 42-year-old father confessed to using objects like a cricket bat and a metal pole to strike Sara while she was restrained with tape. He also admitted to causing fractures to her body.
Despite his confession, Sharif insists he intended to discipline Sara, not kill her. However, this claim fails to alleviate the horror of his actions. The court had previously heard that Sara had suffered prolonged abuse for over two years, enduring burns, bruises, and other injuries. These details, combined with Sharif’s chilling confession, have left many in the courtroom visibly shocked.
Sharif’s initial attempts to blame his wife, Batool, have been exposed as lies. He admitted to making false confessions to protect her, only to change his story on November 13th. He revealed the truth in a phone call and a written note, admitting to his abuse of Sara.
The court has heard testimonies from Batool’s barrister, Caroline Carberry KC, who highlighted the cruelty of Sharif’s actions. Carberry KC pointed out that Sharif told his wife Sara was “pretending” when he beat her with a metal pole. He was seen sobbing as he admitted the truth of her statement.
Sharif, along with Batool and his brother Faisal Malik, has been charged with Sara’s murder. The trial continues, with the public eagerly awaiting justice for this innocent young girl.
