BIRMINGHAM MAN JAILED FOR LIFE FOR WIFE’S MURDER OVER SUPERSTITIOUS BELIEFS
A Birmingham man named Mohammed Mumtaz, aged 25, was handed a life sentence after being convicted of killing his pregnant wife, Naila Mumtaz, who was 21.The court was told that both Mumtaz and his family believed she was possessed by an evil spirit, or djinn.
The death was said to have occurred during a ritual intended to render her unconscious to expel the supposed spirit.
Naila was discovered dead at her family’s home by paramedics after they were called to the scene.
At the time, she was six months pregnant.
Evidence presented during the trial included claims by Mumtaz that Naila had previously tried to suffocate herself, and the court heard that her in-laws subscribed to superstitions about possession.
Authorities revealed that calls involving relatives in Pakistan took place before her death.
Police reports indicated that her injuries were considered by Mumtaz to be self-inflicted.
The judge, Mr Justice Keith, condemned her murder as a betrayal and emphasized her importance as her parents’ only daughter.
Mumtaz’s family—parents Zia Ul-Haq and Salma Aslam and brother-in-law Hammad Hassan—were convicted as well and sentenced to 13-15 years each.
The case highlighted how superstitious beliefs can lead to catastrophic outcomes.
The judge suggested that Mumtaz should be kept with his father for proper support due to his severe disability.
The family, living in Handsworth Wood, Birmingham, issued a statement describing Naila as a joyful and self-assured young woman.
They mourned her loss at almost six months pregnant, a life cut short before she could realize her future plans.
The incident underscores the tragic fallout from harmful superstitions and family betrayal.
