Saman’s Parents Deny Murdering Daughter in Appeals Court

Bologna: The parents of Saman Abbas, who received life sentences in 2023 for the honour killing of their 18-year-old daughter near Parma, addressed an appeals Court of Assizes in Bologna on Thursday, asserting they did not murder her. Both parents, accused of killing Saman Abbas, claimed innocence in the high-profile case that took place two years ago.

According to Ansa News Agency, Saman’s mother, Nazia Shaheen, stated, “We left the house together, I saw Saman walk fast and then I saw her disappear.” Her father, Shabbar Abbas, also denied seeing his daughter after she left the house on the night of the alleged murder, making spontaneous statements during his appeals-level trial.

Both parents fled to Pakistan following Saman’s death, which occurred after she refused to enter an arranged marriage. The case has attracted significant attention due to the cultural and familial dynamics involved.

Saman’s uncle, Danish Hasnain, received a 14-year jail sentence for his role in the murder as determined by the court of first instance. Meanwhile, two of her cousins were acquitted of any involvement in the crime.

The first instance court ruled that Saman was murdered by her family at Novellara near Reggio Emilia on April 31, 2021. The ongoing appeals process seeks to shed light on the true circumstances surrounding her tragic death.