A man who fatally stabbed his estranged wife 26 times in a public street in Bradford, England, has been sentenced to life in prison. Habibur Rahman Masum, 26, from Burnley, Lancashire, was handed a life sentence with a minimum of 28 years for the murder of Kulsuma Akter, 27, in April 2024.
Details of the Murder
Masum was convicted of murder after attacking Akter in broad daylight while she was pushing their 7-month-old son in a stroller. At the time of her death, Akter had been living in a refuge after Masum had sent threatening messages and images of the safe house where she had taken refuge. The couple’s relationship had become violent, with Masum previously holding a knife to her throat, prompting her to leave their home in Oldham and move into the safe house in January.
Prosecutors described how Masum had been stalking his estranged wife, loitering near the safe house and waiting for an opportunity to confront her. On the day of the murder, Akter was walking with a friend when Masum approached her. After she refused to reconcile, he attacked her with a knife, stabbing her repeatedly, including a fatal blow to her neck.
Masum’s Calm After the Attack
After the brutal assault, Masum calmly walked away from the scene and was seen smiling on surveillance footage as he boarded public transportation. Prosecutors noted his lack of remorse, calling him the “smiling killer.” He was arrested on April 9, 2024, after a three-day manhunt.
Conviction and Additional Charges
Masum was convicted in June of murder, assault, stalking, and making threats to kill. He had pleaded guilty to manslaughter and possession of a bladed weapon, but the prosecution rejected the plea and proceeded with the murder charge. The court heard that Masum’s actions were premeditated and driven by his refusal to accept that the relationship was over.
Domestic Abuse and Legal Consequences
Marie Walsh, Senior Crown Prosecutor for CPS Yorkshire and Humberside, called Masum a “violent and dangerous man” who subjected Akter to months of abuse, ultimately leading to her fleeing to the safe house. Masum’s actions were described as “callous and shocking,” resulting in the tragic loss of Akter’s life.
In addition to his life sentence, the Home Office is considering whether to deport Masum, who is originally from Bangladesh. His graduate visa, which allowed him to study English literature at the University of Bedfordshire, expired on June 20, 2024, and he faces potential deportation before serving the minimum term of his sentence.
Victim’s Family and Domestic Violence Awareness
Akter’s family has not made public statements, but the case highlights the dangers of domestic violence and the tragic consequences of abusive relationships. Anyone experiencing domestic violence is encouraged to seek help and support.
