By Lucy Caulkett-
After almost 20 years evading justice, Piran Ditta Khan, 75,(pictured) has been found guilty of the murder of PC Sharon Beshenivsky in a planned armed robbery that shocked Bradford in 2005.
Khan’s extradition from Pakistan in 2023 marked the culmination of a long and arduous pursuit for the last remaining perpetrator involved in the tragic killing.
PC Beshenivsky, a 38-year-old mother, was fatally shot on November 18, 2005, as she responded to an armed robbery at a travel agents in Bradford.
Khan, the mastermind behind the robbery, orchestrated the raid, resulting in PC Beshenivsky’s death and serious injuries to her colleague PC Teresa Milburn.
The trial at Leeds Crown Court revealed Khan’s pivotal role in planning the robbery and giving instructions to the other perpetrators.
Despite his claims of innocence regarding PC Beshenivsky’s murder, Khan was also found guilty of two counts of possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life and two counts of possession of a prohibited weapon.
Khan’s escape to Pakistan following PC Beshenivsky’s death added complexity to the case, requiring international cooperation to secure his extradition.
Murdered: It took years of concerted efforts by law enforcement agencies, including West Yorkshire Police and the National Crime Agency, to locate and return Khan to the UK to face trial.
Speaking outside Leeds Crown Court, Detective Superintendent Marc Bowes of West Yorkshire Police expressed the force’s unwavering commitment to bringing all those responsible for PC Beshenivsky’s death to justice.
He paid tribute to PC Beshenivsky and PC Milburn, emphasizing the profound impact of their tragic deaths on their families and colleagues.
David Holderness, specialist prosecutor for the Crown Prosecution Service Yorkshire and Humberside, highlighted Khan’s culpability as the architect of the robbery.
Khan’s meticulous planning and orchestration of the armed raid made him equally responsible for PC Beshenivsky’s murder even though he did not fire the last shot.
Tom Dowdall, Deputy Director International at the National Crime Agency, underscored the agency’s determination to pursue individuals fleeing justice abroad. Khan’s conviction sends a clear message that perpetrators cannot escape accountability for their crimes, no matter how long they evade capture.
PC Sharon Beshenivsky’s sacrifice in the line of duty will always be remembered, with her legacy enduring through the pursuit of justice for her and her family.
In a statement after the conviction, West Yorkshire police Det Supt Marc Bowes said: “Today as always our thoughts remain with PC Sharon Beshenivsky and her family. Sharon went to work to protect the public, she responded to a call for help alongside her colleague Teresa but tragically never came home.
“This verdict is the culmination of 18 years of hard work, tenacious grit and determination to bring Khan before the courts.”