Somaiya Begum death: funeral of 20-year-old to be held today

Miss Begum, 20, of Binnie Street, Barkerend, Bradford, had been missing for nearly a fortnight when her body was discovered on July 6 in Fitzwilliam Street, on the edge of Bradford city centre.

She was last seen at her home on Saturday, June 25, at 2pm and reported missing 24 hours later.

Police at the scene on Fitzwilliam Street following the discovery of Somaiya's discovery

Her uncle appeared before Bradford Crown Court last week, charged with her murder.

Somaiya’s funeral will be held at the Abu Bakr Masjid on Steadman Street, off Leeds Road, at 1.30pm today.

Her burial will be held at Scholemoor Cemetery in Lidget Green.

There was an outpouring of grief and shock following the tragic discovery of the young woman’s body.

Her university, Leeds Beckett, paid a heartfelt tribute.

Dr Jim Boyne, head of biomedical sciences at Leeds Beckett, said Somaiya had a bright future ahead of her.

He said: "Leeds Beckett University is deeply saddened by this tragic news. Our hearts go out to all those who knew and loved Somaiya at this terribly distressing time.

"Somaiya had settled into life at Leeds Beckett University well and had a bright future ahead of her.

"She was thriving on her degree in biomedical science, displaying an excellent academic skill set.

"Somaiya passed the first year of her studies with very high marks and had chosen the modules she wished to study in year two of her degree.

"Somaiya was a dedicated student who was well-liked by her peers and tutors and will be missed."

Mohammed Taroos Khan, 52, of Thornbury Road, Bradford, is set to stand trial on February 20 next year.

The Recorder of Bradford, Judge Richard Mansell QC, fixed a plea and trial preparation hearing for September 19 when Khan will be arraigned on the murder charge.

Judge Mansell remanded him back into custody saying the Crown will know by then with more accuracy if others will be joined to the case.