A 36-year-old man has been sentenced to six and a half years in prison after violently assaulting his ex-partner, leaving her with permanent facial injuries.

The Somali-born plumber, was found guilty of grievous bodily harm, harassment, threats, and insulting behaviour towards the woman, who was both his former partner and cohabitant. The court heard that although the two had separated two months earlier, they had reconciled and were living together again at the time of the assault.

The incident occurred on the night of May 1, 2024, after the pair had been celebrating a public holiday and drinking vodka. An argument broke out over past issues, during which the victim described Nour as becoming increasingly angry and aggressive. She attempted to remove herself from the situation by going to bed, but the man followed her and began physically assaulting her, striking her repeatedly on the head and back.

While hitting her, he also verbally abused her, calling her a "bitch" and a "slut" after she mentioned she was looking for work. The victim said she was in so much pain she couldn't recall how many times she was hit.

The following day, after visiting a bar and then a nearby shop to buy cigarettes, the shopkeeper noticed her injuries, including a swollen eye, bruises, and bleeding. He urged her to report the abuse to the police, stating he was "tired of this story" and confirming to the court that her injuries were visible and severe. He also testified that the man had tried to explain the injuries as self-inflicted.

One of the wounds left a permanent scar on the woman's face.

Despite the victim later requesting to withdraw the charges, the court refused to drop the case. The magistrate noted that in domestic violence cases, such requests can be rejected in the interest of justice.

Magistrate Abigail Critien handed down a 78-month sentence. He was also ordered to undergo treatment and cover court expenses. The case was prosecuted by Police Inspector Colin Sheldon, with assistance from AG lawyer Jurgen Dalli.