Controlling Husband Dissolves Wife's Body in Acid After Years of Abuse

Arnima Hayat, a 19-year-old woman with dreams of becoming a surgeon, had her life tragically cut short by her controlling husband, Meraj Zafar. Arnima, who had moved to Australia from Bangladesh with her family at the age of nine, was studying medicine at Western Sydney University. However, her relationship with Zafar consumed her life, leading her to withdraw from her family and friends.

Zafar was abusive and controlling, forbidding Arnima from leaving the house without his permission and even strangling her on one occasion. Despite considering going to the police, Arnima was afraid of what Zafar might do. In a chilling last text to a friend, she wrote, "No, I hate him," expressing her despair over the situation.

On January 30, 2022, Zafar's mother called the police after he informed her of a fight with Arnima and his uncertainty about her condition. Upon arriving at their flat, the police discovered a strong chemical smell emanating from the bathroom. Inside, they found a bathtub filled with hydrochloric acid and Arnima's badly decomposed body submerged within.

Zafar, after being on the run for 20 hours, surrendered to the authorities. CCTV footage revealed him purchasing 100 liters of hydrochloric acid from a home improvement store and internet searches indicating his research on the corrosive effects of the acid and the legal consequences of murder in Sydney.

In May 2024, Zafar pleaded guilty to murdering Arnima by suffocating her and dissolving her body in acid. He expressed remorse for his actions, but the judge noted his possessive language, referring to Arnima solely as "his wife," highlighting his controlling nature.

Arnima's tragic death serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence. Her story underscores the importance of seeking help and support when facing abuse, and the need for stronger measures to protect victims from their abusers.