Family of murdered university professor in Basra speak out

BASRA — New details have emerged in the murder of university professor Sarah Al-Aboudi, whose body was discovered on Nov. 26 in a remote area between Abu Al-Khasib and Al-Seeba, south of Basra. The victim’s family disclosed new revelations, including the involvement of a trusted family acquaintance who also worked as her colleague.

According to her cousin, Muhannad Hani, Al-Aboudi had a typical start to her day. “She left for her job at the University of Basra, dropped off her nephew to the school, and when returned home she asked her father to bring bread for breakfast with her colleagues,” Hani explained. Hours later, her family received devastating news.

The crime was committed at 11:17 a.m., and the suspect, identified as a university colleague, allegedly stole Al-Aboudi’s phone and documents. He then sent misleading messages from her phone to her sister, accusing another professor of harassment to divert suspicion. “The family was alerted at 8 p.m., after searching hospitals and police stations,” Hani said. Her body was eventually discovered in the Um Al-Rassas area, but the location of her car remains unknown.

The family expressed disbelief at the involvement of someone they trusted. “There were no prior issues between them,” Hani said. “They were colleagues, and he even brought offerings to our home during religious occasions.” The family is demanding justice and clarity about the suspect’s motives. “We want to understand what drove him to kill, especially since he’s an educated academic.”

Footage allegedly captured the shocking incident, revealing the horrifying details of the crime. The video shows the suspect in a visibly agitated state moments before he opened fire.

The family also voiced concerns about potential interference in the investigation, citing fears that relationships and favoritism could influence the case. “We believe in the fairness of the law and do not want it distorted by personal connections or favoritism,” they stated.

Basra Governor Asaad Al-Eidani confirmed that the suspect is his brother-in-law but reassured the public that the investigation would remain impartial. “The law applies to everyone without exception,” Al-Eidani said. “While others might be swayed due to the familial connection, he remains a suspect in the eyes of the law and was arrested following a judicial order.”

Al-Eidani praised the security forces for their professionalism in apprehending the suspect within 12 hours of the crime. “Despite the personal familial ties, arresting the suspect is the correct step toward establishing the rule of law over everyone,” he said. “The law applies to everyone, even if the suspect is the governor’s brother-in-law.”