A benefit fraudster who has resided in Scotland for two full decades required a taxpayer-funded interpreter to assist with his English during his latest court appearance. Hassan Mirza, a 43-year-old shopkeeper originally from Pakistan, found himself back in the dock at Dundee Sheriff Court for a new offence.
Previous Fraud and Language Claims
Mirza was previously sentenced to eight months in prison during 2022 after he impersonated his deceased father, Abdul Mirza, to fraudulently claim £22,000 in benefits over a two-year period. When questioned about that fraud at the time, Mirza stated, 'My English is not so good,' citing language difficulties.
Latest Domestic Abuse Case
In the most recent case, Mirza admitted to engaging in a prolonged course of abusive behaviour towards his wife, Saira Arif, between May 2023 and September 2024. The abuse escalated after Arif, whom he married in 2021, expressed concerns about his repeated trips to Sweden, where his adult children reside.
Mirza's abusive actions included repeatedly cutting himself in front of Ms Arif while blaming her for his self-harm. He also physically assaulted her by grabbing her neck and pushing her, destroyed her mobile phone, and chased her out of their shared home in Dundee.
Court Proceedings and Interpreter Controversy
Despite having lived in Scotland for twenty years, Mirza required an interpreter during court proceedings. His defence solicitor, Annika Jethwa, acknowledged this apparent contradiction on Friday, stating, 'He has lived in this country for 20 years and he does speak English – but he is sometimes not following things said to him. He did not have the benefit of an interpreter.'
Sheriff Paul Ralph addressed Mirza directly during sentencing, remarking, 'For a period of almost 18 months you were abusing your wife. That behaviour is completely unacceptable. Some of the responses you gave to social workers indicate you have not reflected on your behaviour.'
Sentencing and Supervision
The sheriff noted that the background report prepared by social workers was 'extremely poor' in its assessment. As part of his sentence, Sheriff Ralph placed Mirza under supervision for two years to allow social workers to 'challenge his attitudes' regarding domestic abuse. Additionally, Mirza received 200 hours of community service as punishment for his abusive conduct toward his wife.
This case highlights the ongoing legal challenges involving individuals who claim language barriers despite extensive residence in the country, particularly when previous fraudulent activities have already brought them before the courts.
