a “toxic narcissist” who wanted everything to happen
A Birmingham man who murdered his partner following a coercive and controlling relationship has been jailed for life, with a minimum term of 21 years.
Imran Uddin was sentenced after being found responsible for the death of Ismail Younis, who was discovered at Uddin’s home in Hockley in August 2025.
West Midlands Police said Uddin had subjected Younis to controlling behaviour throughout their two-year relationship.
Detectives said Uddin controlled aspects of Younis’ life, including his clothing, appearance and access to his mobile phone.
Police also said Uddin mocked Younis’ autism and regularly physically attacked him as part of his controlling behaviour.
The relationship reportedly began positively before Uddin’s behaviour became increasingly controlling and abusive.
In the days before Younis’ death, detectives said he had decided to end the relationship after discovering evidence that Uddin had been unfaithful.
On August 17, 2025, Younis was captured on CCTV travelling on Uddin’s scooter towards his home on Richmond Road.
Younis was reported missing before his body was discovered at Uddin’s property three days later.
West Midlands Police said Uddin had strangled his partner before repeatedly stabbing him.
The force said evidence found during the investigation included Younis’ blood on Uddin’s phone.
Police also recovered the knife believed to have been used in the killing from Uddin’s home.
Investigators said the weapon had been washed and returned to a drawer after the attack.
Following the murder, Uddin travelled by train to Milton Keynes, where members of his family lived.
Detectives said he spent the following day carrying out everyday activities, including getting his hair cut, having his eyebrows threaded and eating out.
Uddin was arrested in the Aylesbury area on August 21, 2025.
Detective Sergeant Jeanette Roberts described Uddin as a “toxic narcissist” who wanted everything to happen according to his wishes.
She said Younis’ death came after he found the strength to regain his independence and end the relationship.
Roberts said Uddin had used coercive and controlling behaviour before ultimately manoeuvring Younis into a situation that resulted in his death.
The case has highlighted the devastating consequences that coercive control and domestic abuse can have within relationships.
Police said Uddin showed no remorse for what happened to his partner.
Younis’ family paid tribute to him following the sentencing, saying his death had left their lives permanently changed.
They said Ismail would always remain their “little boy” and that he would never be forgotten.
The family added that they would continue carrying his name, memory and love in their hearts.
Uddin will now serve a minimum of 21 years in prison for the murder.
The case also serves as a reminder that controlling behaviour can be a serious warning sign within relationships and should not be dismissed.
