Iranian authorities have charged a woman with murdering 11 husbands over more than two decades in what prosecutors allege was a calculated scheme to obtain wealth through poisoning.
At a Glance
- Kulthum Akbari, 56, accused of killing 11 husbands from 2000 to 2023
- Methods allegedly included sedatives and industrial alcohol
- Assets of victims reportedly transferred to her daughter’s name
- Defendant claims uncertainty over the true number of victims
- Mental health evaluation requested by defense
Allegations of Serial Poisoning
Prosecutors in Iran allege that Kulthum Akbari engaged in a prolonged pattern of targeted killings between 2000 and 2023. According to court documents, each victim was a legal spouse who died under suspicious circumstances following sudden illness. Post-mortem analyses in several cases reportedly detected traces of toxic substances, including sedatives and industrial alcohol.
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Authorities say the murders were motivated by financial gain, with evidence showing that Akbari arranged for property, bank accounts, and other assets belonging to her deceased husbands to be transferred to her daughter shortly before or after each death.
Confession and Discrepancies
During initial questioning, Akbari admitted to involvement in multiple deaths but claimed she could not remember the exact number of victims. Prosecutors have cited this statement as an indicator of premeditation and repetition over a long period. Investigators are reviewing older death records for potential links to the accused.
Akbari’s defense team has requested a comprehensive psychiatric assessment, arguing that mental health factors may have influenced her actions. They contend that without a full medical and psychological profile, the court cannot determine appropriate sentencing.
Public Reaction and Legal Proceedings
The case has drawn intense public interest in Iran, not only for its scale but also for its alleged exploitation of marriage as a vehicle for financial crime. Victims’ families have publicly challenged the defense narrative, insisting that the killings were deliberate acts carried out for personal enrichment.
Iranian legal experts note that if convicted of multiple counts of intentional murder, Akbari could face the death penalty under the country’s penal code. The trial is expected to involve extensive forensic evidence, witness testimony, and financial records tracing the flow of assets from the victims to the accused’s family.
Law enforcement officials have confirmed that they are cooperating with civil registries and financial institutions to uncover any additional cases connected to the suspect. The possibility of more victims remains under investigation.
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