LONDON — In a tragic case that has captured public attention, a 10-year-old girl discovered dead in her home in England has led to her father’s shocking admission after he fled to Pakistan. The jury learned during proceedings on Monday that Urfan Sharif, aged 42, contacted U.K. police from abroad, confessing to the killing of his daughter, Sara Sharif. He is currently on trial at London’s Central Criminal Court alongside his partner, Beinash Batool, and his brother, Faisal Malik, who are also accused of involvement in her murder.

During the opening statements of the trial, prosecutor William Emlyn Jones outlined the serious nature of the charges against the three defendants, indicating they were all implicated in a sustained “campaign of abuse” that ultimately led to Sara’s untimely death. Sara’s body was discovered under a blanket in a bunk bed at her residence in Woking, located to the southwest of London, on August 10, 2023. Reports indicated she sustained numerous injuries, including significant bruising and fractures throughout her body.

Emlyn Jones recounted the disturbing circumstances surrounding the case, revealing that the girl’s father had directly told authorities in a phone call from Pakistan, “I’ve killed my daughter. I legally punished her, and she died.” He further claimed that his actions were not intended to result in her death but admitted he had “beat her up too much,” as conveyed to the jury.

Prior to the grim discovery, Urfan Sharif, Batool, and Malik had traveled to Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan, on August 9. After a thorough search, Pakistani authorities located the three suspects and facilitated their return to the U.K. They were arrested upon landing at London’s Gatwick Airport and have since remained in custody.

The prosecutor emphasized that all three individuals had lived with Sara in the same household, suggesting it was “inconceivable” that one person acted independently in the alleged abuse. All three defendants deny the charges of murder as well as the allegations of causing or allowing the child’s death.

As the trial progresses, it is anticipated to continue until December, maintaining the public’s interest in this heart-wrenching case. The details emerging from the trial have raised significant concern and discussion surrounding child welfare and protection.