In a disturbing case that sheds light on the devastating effects of coercive control, Murtaza Syed from Peterborough, UK, has been sentenced to two years and six months in prison. His wife endured a harrowing two-year ordeal. She was kept a virtual prisoner in her own home, subjected to humiliating and degrading treatment, and cut off from any means of seeking help.
A Life Under Total Control
Murtaza Syed, 47, of Century Square, Peterborough, exercised absolute control over his wife’s life. Cambridge News reports that she was not allowed to close the door while using the bathroom, had her body examined for marks indicating adultery, and was forced to take a lie detector test. These controlling practices were designed to degrade and dehumanize her. Syed ensured she felt powerless and constantly under suspicion.
Syed deprived her of a phone or any electronic devices, preventing her from seeking help or maintaining contact with the outside world. He constantly changed the pins and passwords for all household devices, further isolating her. The woman was not allowed to leave the house unaccompanied or without his permission, keeping her trapped and completely dependent on him.
A Call for Help
The woman’s courageous call to the police on February 23rd brought her nightmare to light. She disclosed the mental and physical abuse she had suffered for two years. The most recent assault occurred just days before, on February 18th. On that day, Syed threw a lighter at her eye and repeatedly punched her in the head. This was just one of many violent episodes that left her living in constant fear.
Despite Syed’s initial denials during the police interview, he eventually admitted to coercive and controlling behavior and one count of causing actual bodily harm. He confirmed making his wife take a lie detector test, which she passed. Nevertheless, he he continued to impose his oppressive rules and restrictions. His actions left her without any means of reaching out for help, creating an environment of total control and domination.
On July 11th, Murtaza Syed was sentenced at Peterborough Crown Court to two years and six months in prison. An indefinite restraining order was also issued, preventing him from contacting his victim.
Understanding Coercive Control
Coercive control is a pattern of behaviour designed to dominate and restrict the freedom of another person. This form of abuse can be as damaging as physical violence, leaving lasting psychological scars.
In the UK, coercive control became a criminal offence under the Serious Crime Act 2015. It recognizes the severe impact of non-physical abuse on victims. According to the Office for National Statistics, an estimated 2.3 million adults aged 16 to 74 years experienced domestic abuse in the last year, with coercive control being a significant component of this abuse.
Detective Sergeant Louis Scott emphasized the severity of Syed’s actions: “The impact of Syed’s behaviour on his wife shouldn’t be underestimated; she was left feeling helpless and like a prisoner in her own home. No person should have to suffer this kind of abuse, and it’s important to also highlight that domestic abuse isn’t always just physical” [via Peterborough Matters].
He continued, “Victims can also suffer from the threat and fear of injury, daily intimidation, and having every aspect of their life monitored and controlled. Coercive control is a criminal offence, and as this case highlights, we take all reports of it very seriously.”
Featured image: Murtaza Syed. Source: Cambridgeshire Police.
