A domestic abuse victim who was horrifically attacked by her husband has been praised by police after he was jailed for 26 years. Raju Mollah, 50, poured hot oil over his wife's face during a violent incident at their Birmingham home in January last year.
Attack sparked by divorce row
The couple had been married for 23 years when a row over divorce led to the assault, a court heard. Mollah not only poured hot oil on her face but also pushed a red-hot skillet into her skin. He banged her head against hard surfaces, smothered her, and rammed her face with a mop. He then stamped and kicked her multiple times inside the Small Heath property.
Conviction and sentence
Mollah was found guilty of attempted murder following a trial at Birmingham Crown Court. On Friday, April 24, he was sentenced to 26 years in prison. The judge described the burns and injuries he inflicted on his wife as 'horrific'. The court also heard how the victim lost friends who sided with Mollah after the attack.
Police commend bravery
Detective Inspector Phil Griffiths of West Midlands Police said: 'This woman sadly suffered an absolutely vicious attack which was clearly an attempt to end her life. We want to commend her for finding the bravery, after suffering significant and life-changing injuries, to still come to us, speak with us and help bear witness to the crime that was committed against her. She has helped ensure that this offender is now locked up for many years to come.'
A police spokesperson added: 'A husband who tried to kill his wife in a vicious attack at their Birmingham home has been jailed for 26 years. Raju Mollah attacked his wife by pouring hot oil on her face, before violently assaulting her in a sustained attack. The 50-year-old was arrested shortly after we were called to reports of a woman being attacked by a man in the Small Heath property on 12 January last year. Mollah initially admitted inflicting grievous bodily harm with intent but denied attempted murder. However, following a trial at Birmingham Crown Court in August, he was found guilty of attempted murder. Yesterday (Friday), Mollah was jailed for 26 years, with the judge describing the burns and injuries he had inflicted on his wife as 'horrific'.'
Support for victims
West Midlands Police urged anyone experiencing domestic abuse to call 999 in an emergency. The force continues to support victims and bring perpetrators to justice.
