Convicted child murderer Urfan Sharif, 43, was seriously injured after being attacked inside HMP Belmarsh, one of the UK’s highest-security prisons, just weeks after receiving a life sentence for the killing of his 10-year-old daughter, Sara. The assault happened on New Year’s Day when two inmates entered his cell and attacked him with a makeshift weapon believed to be fashioned from a tuna can lid.

Prison sources say Sharif suffered multiple cuts to his face and neck and was rushed to the prison’s medical wing, where he remains in serious condition. Officials believe the attack may have been planned. According to sources, Sharif had been at risk since his arrival, as crimes against children often make inmates targets within prison populations.

Sharif’s case sparked widespread outrage. Evidence presented in court showed that Sara endured prolonged abuse before her death in August 2023. The severity of the case led to strong reactions both publicly and within the prison system. He was sentenced at the Old Bailey to a minimum of 40 years in prison.

His wife, Beinash Batool, received a 33-year sentence, while his brother-in-law, Faisal Malik, was sentenced to 16 years for his role in the case. The case also gained international attention after Sharif and others fled the UK with several children. They were later located in Pakistan and returned to face trial.

Authorities are now investigating the prison attack as Sharif continues to recover under close supervision.