A former police worker from Birmingham has courageously shared her harrowing experience of domestic abuse at the hands of her drug dealer husband, Mohammad Mostafa, emphasizing that abuse can happen to anyone.
Earlier this month, Mostafa was sentenced at Birmingham Crown Court for a pattern of coercive control, violence, and drug offenses committed over two years. The survivor, who worked for West Midlands Police and remains unnamed for safety reasons, is now speaking publicly to raise awareness of domestic abuse and the protective measures available, including Clare’s Law.
The abuse began early in their relationship in 2023, initially disguised as what she mistook for protectiveness. However, it soon escalated into psychological control and isolation. “Abuse doesn’t start with physical violence,” she explained. “It starts with psychological control—small compromises, self-doubt, and questioning yourself instead of the other person.”
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Mostafa demanded constant access to her passwords and phone, dictated her appearance and associations, and monitored her every move. This controlling behavior soon turned violent. Incidents included being grabbed aggressively in a car, hair pulling, being punched, and denigrating name-calling.
Despite these episodes, the survivor stayed, feeling trapped by fear and societal pressures. Mostafa’s family urged her to remain, culminating in an Islamic wedding in mid-2023. She described the painful cycle of abuse followed by apologies and false promises, the desire to maintain a perfect façade, and the belief she would be blamed if she spoke out.
Once married, Mostafa’s abuse intensified, especially after she became pregnant. His violent outbursts reached a terrifying peak when he strangled her while under the influence of alcohol and inhalants, threatening both her life and that of their unborn child. Even during labor, he verbally and physically assaulted her.
Mostafa was also found guilty of drug offenses, including possession with intent to supply cocaine and possessing a “drug dealer’s kit.” On July 10, he received a prison sentence of five years and two months and a 17-year restraining order.
The survivor, who resigned from her police role, reflected, “I had a life I was proud of—helping others, especially victims. I never imagined I would be one myself.” She urges anyone facing domestic abuse to seek help and highlights Clare’s Law, which allows individuals to request information about a partner’s violent history from the police.
Judge Peter Cooke condemned Mostafa’s misconduct as “shameful, misogynist, controlling, arrogant, loutish, and violent,” but acknowledged his potential for a better future. This case stands as a stark reminder that domestic abuse transcends background or profession and that support is available for those in need.