Honour Killing Sentence
Dutch Court Sentences Four Men to 25 Years for Honour Killing of Woman and Daughter
A Dutch court has sentenced four men to 25 years in prison for the "honour killing" of a 28-year-old woman, Roshin, who was stabbed 28 times in broad daylight in front of her three-year-old daughter in the eastern Dutch city of Apeldoorn in September 2023.
Background of the Crime
Roshin was stabbed by her 36-year-old elder brother, identified as Peshang A., as she walked with her daughter in the street. The court described the crime as "a more gruesome end to a human life, hard to imagine. Her daughter saw her mother killed in a very violent way."
Court Verdict
The court also sentenced another brother and two cousins for their part in the murder. The audio and chat messages exchanged between the men revealed that they had planned the murder together, deciding that Roshin had to die because she had "violated the family’s honour". The family had wanted Roshin to move in with her parents in The Hague, but she chose to stay in Apeldoorn with her daughter and start a new relationship.
Preparations for the Murder
The four men made preparations together to carry out the plan, deliberately keeping the rest of the family out of the execution plans. The court described this as a "concerted effort" to commit the crime.
Attempted Escape by Peshang A.
Peshang A. reportedly tried to escape the court after the verdict, but was restrained by police.
Compensatory Payment to the Daughter
The court ordered the four men to pay 70,000 euros ($73,000) to the daughter, who witnessed the heinous crime.
Conclusion
This case highlights the devastating consequences of honour killings, which are often characterized by their brutal and senseless nature. The fact that the perpetrators were able to plan and execute this crime, leaving a young daughter to bear the traumatic experience, is a stark reminder of the severity of these crimes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is an honour killing?
A: An honour killing is a crime committed to protect the family’s reputation or to restore their honour, often targeting women who are seen as bringing shame to the family.
Q: How common are honour killings?
A: Honour killings are a global problem, with reports of such crimes occurring in various parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Q: What are the consequences of honour killings?
A: The consequences of honour killings are severe, resulting in the death or serious harm of the victim, and often leaving behind a trail of trauma and emotional distress for the family and community.