Trial set for October in Sara Sharif murder case in Woking

Urfan Sharif, his partner Beinash Batool, and brother Faisal Malik are accused of murdering ten-year-old Sara Sharif, whose body was discovered in their Woking home on August 10, 2022. The trio had fled to Pakistan the day before her body was found, leaving behind five children. They were arrested upon returning to the UK on September 13, 2022, after disembarking from a flight from Dubai. The prosecution alleges that Sara suffered multiple and extensive injuries over a prolonged period, indicating a history of violence. During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Sara had a constellation of healed and healing injuries, including fractures and bruising, suggesting a sustained pattern of abuse. The defendants deny the charges of murder and allowing her death, claiming innocence. The trial is set to begin on October 7, 2023, with jury selection, followed by the prosecutor's opening statement on October 14. The case has drawn significant public attention due to the tragic circumstances surrounding Sara's death and the alleged actions of her family. The prosecution has emphasized the severity of the injuries found on Sara, which were indicative of prolonged mistreatment. The trial is expected to last up to seven weeks, presided over by High Court judge Mr. Justice Cavanagh. Sara's mother, Olga Sharif, visited the family home shortly after her daughter's death to pay her respects, highlighting the emotional impact of the case on the community. The events leading to the trial raise serious questions about child welfare and the responsibilities of caregivers, as the legal proceedings unfold in the coming weeks.