**Trial Date Confirmed for Cardiff Man Accused of Murdering Estranged Wife**
A trial date has now been set in the case of a Cardiff man accused of killing his estranged wife, whose body was discovered with multiple stab wounds earlier this year. The case centres around the death of Paria Veisi, a 37-year-old woman originally from Iran, whose tragic end has sent shockwaves through both the local community and the wider Iranian diaspora.
Ms Veisi, who was last seen alive on 12 April as she left work in Cardiff, had initially been reported missing by concerned family members after they lost contact with her. She was believed to have driven away from her workplace in a black Mercedes at approximately 3pm that day. Days later, her body was found in the garden of a property in the Penylan area of Cardiff.
Court proceedings have revealed that a post-mortem examination determined the cause of death to be multiple stab wounds to her neck and upper chest. Such details, though distressing, are crucial in forming the basis of the ongoing legal investigation and subsequent trial.
Alireza Askari, aged 41, has been charged with the murder of Ms Veisi. In addition, he faces charges relating to the prevention of a lawful and respectful burial, as well as a count of assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Legal observers note that such charges indicate the complexity and seriousness with which prosecutors are approaching the case.
Also implicated in the proceedings is Maryam Delavary, 48, from White City, London. She stands accused of preventing a lawful burial and of conspiring to pervert the course of justice. During a recent appearance at Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court, Delavary pleaded not guilty to both charges. Meanwhile, Mr Askari has not yet entered any plea and is expected to do so when the trial commences.
The trial, set to begin on 20 April 2026, is expected to last approximately four weeks. Legal experts predict that the proceeding will involve extensive witness testimony, forensic evidence, and complex discussions regarding the circumstances surrounding Ms Veisi’s death.
Following the tragic discovery of her body, the Cardiff community held a significant memorial service in Ms Veisi’s honour at the Norwegian Church in Cardiff Bay. The turnout was so large that many mourners had to wait outside, reflecting the depth of feeling for the well-liked local woman. Friends and community members described Ms Veisi as “kind, caring, and vibrant,” remembering her as a positive influence who brought happiness to those around her.
One of her close friends, Sara Rezaei, spoke emotionally before the service, emphasising the human loss behind the legal proceedings. She remarked, “Paria wasn’t just someone in the headlines—she was a kind, caring, and vibrant soul who brought joy to everyone around her.” This sentiment has been widely echoed in local circles, where Ms Veisi is remembered for her generosity and warmth.
The ongoing investigation and forthcoming trial continue to command public attention, raising questions about the prevalence of domestic violence and the challenges facing many women in difficult personal circumstances. This case is particularly resonant in Cardiff’s multicultural communities, where Ms Veisi had made significant contributions.
As the trial date approaches, many will be watching closely, both for the anticipated legal outcomes and for the broader social issues the case has brought to the fore. The tragedy of Ms Veisi’s death remains a stark reminder of the importance of community vigilance and legal protection for vulnerable individuals.