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Murderer of Pakistani girl Zainab Ansari, 7, handed four death sentences

Victim: 7-year-old Zainab
Victim: 7-year-old Zainab

The man who kidnapped, raped and murdered a 7-year-old girl in Pakistan has been sentenced to death.

The killing of Zainab Ansari sparked protests and national condemnation after her body was found dumped on a rubbish heap.

The little girl had been snatched on her way to a Quran study session in the city of Kasur and subjected to a horrific sexual assault and possibly torture before being strangled.

Her killing sparked protests in the region, with many accusing the police of incompetence.

CCTV: Footage showed the little girl being led away
CCTV: Footage showed the little girl being led away

Mohammad Imran, 24, was arrested after being linked to the kidnap and assaults of several other children in the area.

Public prosecutor Ehtesham Qadir said the court announced the decision in the presence of Imran, who had pleaded guilty during the five-day trial.

He was handed death sentences for kidnapping, rape, murder and an act of terrorism, a life sentence for sodomy and a large fine.

He has 15 days to appeal the sentencing.