Sara Sharif murder: UK yet to make formal assistance request with Pakistan

LONDON: British authorities have not yet made a formal request for assistance from Pakistan in connection with the investigation into the murder of ten-year-old Sara Sharif.

Sara’s body was discovered at her family residence in Woking, Surrey, around 02:50 BST on August 10.

A post-mortem examination conducted on Tuesday indicated that the cause of death is still under investigation.

According to a report by BBC News, three individuals known to Sara had purchased one-way tickets to Pakistan and departed the day prior to the discovery of her body.

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Following the discovery of Sara’s body at the property on Hammond Road, Surrey Police launched a murder inquiry, and officers anticipate being present at the location for several weeks.

While no arrests have been made, detectives are seeking to speak with the three individuals who reportedly left the country on August 9.

A travel agent in Woking informed the BBC that an acquaintance of Sara had approached them for tickets for three adults and five children.

On Thursday, tributes in the form of flowers were left outside the house, including a bouquet accompanied by a Polish card that is believed to be from Sara’s mother. The translated message reads: “Rest peacefully, my beloved daughter. You are now an angel in heaven, watching over us from above. Love you, Mama.”

Detective Superintendent Mark Chapman, from the major crime teams of Surrey Police and Sussex Police, stated that there is no active effort to identify additional individuals connected to the investigation.

The National Crime Agency (NCA) has confirmed its collaboration with Surrey Police in their investigative efforts. A statement released by the NCA reads: “The NCA is assisting Surrey Police in their inquiry into the murder of a ten-year-old girl. This involves specialized personnel from our Joint International Crime Centre and our international network, providing necessary operational support, counsel, and direction.”

When contacted, police authorities in Pakistan informed the BBC that no formal request has been received from British authorities concerning this case.

It is worth noting that Pakistan and the UK lack a formal extradition treaty.

Surrey Police has reported that they have informed the girl’s mother and are continuing to offer support through specially trained officers.