Lost to Honour: The Tragic Death of Banaz Mahmod

In this episode of Sinister South, we dive into the deeply tragic case of Banaz Mahmood, a young Kurdish woman from South London whose life was taken in a devastating honour killing. After enduring years of abuse in a forced marriage, Banaz sought help from the police five times, only to be tragically failed by the very system meant to protect her. We unpack the cultural pressures behind honour-based violence, Banaz's immense courage in seeking freedom, and the chilling systemic failures that led to her untimely death.

Of course, before the heavy stuff, we chat about Hannah’s recent bath-time self-care obsession and Rachel’s ongoing DIY home improvement saga—because balance is key, right?

Trigger warnings: this episode covers sensitive and disturbing content, including family betrayal, abuse, and murder. We also take a moment to reflect on the changes inspired by Banaz’s case and the importance of protecting vulnerable women at risk of honour-based violence.

Sources for this case include:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murder_of_Banaz_Mahmod

https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2022/jun/22/honour-killings-devils-work-bekhal-banaz-mahmod

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-11716272

https://www.itv.com/watch/honour/2a7534/2a7534a0001

https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2020/sep/21/uk-policing-why-not-enough-has-changed-since-the-murder-of-banaz-mahmod

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VepuyvhHYdM

https://ekurd.net/mismas/articles/misc2007/11/kurdsworldwide262.htm

If you or anyone you know is at risk of honour-based violence, these organisations are here to help.

Karma Nirvana
A specialist charity for victims and survivors of honour-based abuse in the UK. They also have a UK Helpline, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm: 0800 5999 247

The Halo project
A national project that supports victims of honour-based violence, forced marriages and FGM by providing advice and support to victims. 

Freedom Charity
Bringing awareness, help and support to victims of forced marriage, honour-based violence and female genital mutilation (FGM).

Refuge
A charity helping victims rebuild their

Support the show

Thanks for tuning in! If you loved diving into the dark corners of South London with us, don't forget to hit that subscribe button to never miss an episode of "Sinister South."

Also, follow us on Instagram @SinisterSouthPodcast for sneak peeks, behind-the-scenes content, and more cheeky banter, or www.sinistersouthpod.co.uk. Remember, every crime tells a story... and South is the best side of the river...

Produced and hosted by Hannah Williams & Rachel Baines
Mixed & edited by Purple Waves Sound (A.K.A Will)