**Husband Sentenced to Life for Brutal Murder of Wife as She Pushed Baby in Pram**
A man described by a judge as controlling and violent has been given a life sentence for the murder of his wife, whom he viciously stabbed while she was pushing the couple’s baby in a pram. The attack, which occurred in broad daylight in Bradford, has left a community in shock and a family devastated by loss.
Habibur Masum, 27, was told he must serve a minimum of 28 years in prison for the murder of Kulsuma Akter. The sentencing took place at Bradford Crown Court, where Masum was condemned for tracking down his wife to a women’s refuge before launching the fatal assault. The court heard that Masum had demonstrated controlling, jealous and coercive behaviour towards Ms Akter, and had stalked her relentlessly even after she sought shelter from him.
The presiding judge, Mr Justice Cotter, made clear in his remarks the gravity of Masum’s actions. He described the attack as “brutal and merciless,” and directly accused Masum of stealing “a precious young life.” The judge highlighted the calculated and ruthless nature of the crime, emphasising that the evidence left no doubt as to Masum’s intent to kill.
Addressing the enduring impact of the tragedy, Mr Justice Cotter observed, “It is indeed a sad fact that it can be very difficult to entirely protect a woman in a refuge from a determined and cunning man intent on confrontation.” This has prompted broader concerns about the adequacy of protections for those seeking safety in refuges, and the challenges posed by determined perpetrators.
Ms Akter’s family spoke out in the aftermath of the trial, expressing the depth of their grief. Her brother, Emran Hussain, issued a heartfelt statement describing the “deep, painful void” left in their lives. The emotional distress faced by Akter’s family is reflected in the wider community, as residents have been left reeling by the incident that took place in such a public and vulnerable setting.
Media coverage surrounding the case has focused not only on the shocking nature of the attack but also on the wider issue of domestic abuse and violence against women. Many advocacy groups have called for further measures to ensure the safety of those at risk, and to strengthen the support available to victims fleeing abusive relationships.
During sentencing, Mr Justice Cotter pointed to the premeditated and determined way in which Masum carried out the murder. The court heard evidence of extensive stalking, with Masum tracking Ms Akter to the shelter where she had sought safety. Despite her efforts to rebuild her life and protect her child, she was ultimately found by her abuser in what should have been a haven.
The tragic death of Kulsuma Akter serves as a grim reminder of the risks faced by individuals fleeing domestic violence. Community leaders, politicians and charities have all expressed condolences to the family and echoed calls for urgent reform to ensure that refuges and protective measures are genuinely secure and effective for those in need.
As the justice system responds to the aftermath of the crime, the focus for many remains on finding ways to prevent such harrowing incidents from recurring. Campaigners continue to urge a national conversation on the safety of women and children escaping abusive environments, underscoring that the devastating consequences of domestic violence reach far beyond those immediately involved.