Pakistan police raid 20 properties as hunt for Sara Sharif’s family continues

Pakistani police have reportedly raided multiple properties during searches for Sara Sharif’s family, hours after they released a video claiming they are  ready to “fight our case in court”.

Remarks by Sara’s stepmother Beinash Batool in footage released to broadcasters on Wednesday marked the first to be made publicly about the 10-year-old’s death.

In the video, Ms Batool claimed the family were running out of food and were scared to venture outside for they safety as they accused the media of telling “lies” about them.

Following the release of the clip, Sky News reported police raided at least 20 properties in an operation apparently focused in Jhelum and Mirpur.

It comes as Sara’s father Urfan Sharif and Ms Batool indicated they are willing to co-operate with authorities and “fight our case in court”, although there was no specific mention of returning to the UK.

“All of our family members have gone into hiding as everyone is scared for their safety. The kids are unable to attend school as they’re afraid to leave the house. No one is leaving the house.

“The groceries have run out and there is no food for the kids as the adults are unable to leave their homes out of fear for safety.”

In her final remarks, Ms Batool indicated the family is ready to speak to police in the UK.

“Lastly, we are willing to cooperate with the UK authorities and fight our case in court,” she added.

Tragic death 

Meanwhile, Surrey Police have translated appeals for information on Sara into Urdu to reach Pakistani nationals living locally.

Officers who are fluent in Urdu are supporting the investigation team to translate information given by members of the public, Surrey Police said.

Posters have also been displayed in and around Woking railway station and taxi ranks around the town, and a video format appeal has also been produced.

The appeal has generated “a number of inquiries which are helping detectives to piece together a picture of Sara’s life before her tragic death,” police said.

Police want to speak to Sara’s father, Urfan Sharif, 41, his partner Beinash Batool, 29, and Urfan’s brother, Faisal Malik, 28, who fled the UK for Pakistan after Sara was found dead and alone at the family home in Woking, Surrey, on August 10.

A post-mortem examination found she had suffered “multiple and extensive injuries” over a “sustained and extended” period of time.