Bradford, England — A husband has been sentenced to 28 years in prison for the brutal murder of his wife, who was fatally stabbed while pushing their infant son in a pram. The attack occurred in broad daylight after Habibur Masum tracked 27-year-old Kulsuma Akter to a women’s refuge, where she had sought refuge from his violent behavior.
Masum, 26, was found guilty of murder after brutally stabbing Akter more than 25 times, leaving her to bleed out on the street. The court heard from prosecutor Stephen Wood, who described the attack as “ferocious,” detailing how Masum confronted Akter while she was accompanied by a friend on April 6, 2024. As Akter attempted to walk away, Masum pulled a knife from his jacket and launched a relentless assault, even kicking her before finally cutting her throat.
Witnesses, including two doctors who happened to be nearby, tried to help Akter, but their efforts were in vain. The judge characterized Masum’s actions as a “violation of the trust and security” that should exist in an intimate relationship, depicting him as “violent, self-centered, jealous, and controlling.” In his sentencing remarks, he highlighted the lack of remorse shown by Masum, stating, “You stole a precious young life in a brutal and merciless fashion.”
Prior to the attack, Masum had stalked Akter, loitering around the women’s refuge and sending her threatening messages via text. He had previously wielded a knife during a domestic violence incident in their home and made threats against her family if she did not return to him. The court was informed that Masum even attempted to lure her out by fabricating medical appointments for their son, demonstrating the lengths he would go to maintain control over her.
The couple’s tumultuous relationship began in Bangladesh before they relocated to the UK in 2022. Once in England, Masum’s jealousy and possessiveness escalated to alarming levels, leading to numerous incidents of violence and intimidation. After seeking help, Akter moved to a refuge in Bradford to escape him, but Masum’s disturbing behavior did not cease. He had been found by authorities at a tram station after a violent altercation with Akter, and he threatened self-harm when she attempted to leave him for her safety.
Masum, who showed no real remorse throughout the trial, claimed not to remember the attack. During the proceedings, he requested to view video footage of his assault, indicating a disturbing preoccupation with his own defense rather than acknowledging the gravity of his actions.
Following the attack, Masum fled south nearly 200 miles to Aylesbury, where he was eventually apprehended at a hospital. The chilling nature of this case has prompted discussions about domestic violence and the systemic failures that often leave victims vulnerable. As Akter’s family continues to mourn their loss, questions remain about how to better protect those seeking refuge from abusive relationships. The case highlights the urgent need for heightened awareness and effective measures to prevent domestic violence and provide adequate support for victims.