A Perth man has been sentenced to life imprisonment for the brutal murder of a young mother during what began as a consensual sexual encounter that turned deadly.
Tragic Night Ends in Murder
Muhammad Abdur Rehman Mirza, 33, will spend at least 20 years behind bars for killing 28-year-old Smera Anwar at his Huntingdale home in October 2022. The Supreme Court of Western Australia heard that the pair had met on dating app Bumble and arranged to meet for sex.
Justice Joseph McGrath described how the situation turned violent when Mirza became angry after Ms Anwar asked him to wear a condom. "You became enraged and proceeded to assault her in a sustained and violent manner," Justice McGrath told the court during sentencing.
Brutal Attack and Aftermath
The court heard disturbing details of the attack that left Ms Anwar with catastrophic injuries. Mirza strangled, punched, and stomped on the young mother, leaving her with 57 separate injuries including broken ribs, facial fractures, and brain bleeding.
After the murder, Mirza attempted to cover up his crime by washing Ms Anwar's body and placing her in his bed. He then went about his normal activities, including attending work and visiting a mosque, before finally confessing to his wife and father.
Justice McGrath noted the particular cruelty of Mirza's actions, especially his decision to send mocking messages from Ms Anwar's phone to her friends and family after her death.
Justice Served for Young Mother
Smera Anwar was described in court as a "vibrant, beautiful and caring mother" who left behind a young daughter. Her family presented victim impact statements detailing the profound grief and trauma caused by her loss.
Justice McGrath imposed a life sentence with a minimum of 20 years, making Mirza eligible for parole in 2042. The sentence reflects the gravity of the crime and the vulnerability of the victim.
With time already served since his arrest in October 2022, Mirza will be approximately 53 years old when he first becomes eligible for release from prison.
