The five siblings of murdered Woking schoolgirl Sara Sharif are to remain in Pakistan after a court granted their grandfather guardianship.

The decision brings an end to a lengthy legal battle over the future of the children, who have been living in Pakistan since August 2023.

Their grandfather, Muhammed Sharif, was granted guardianship by a Pakistani court on Saturday (October 10), according to the BBC.

The children, now aged between four and 16, were asked to speak to the judge during the hearing, with the eldest confirming they were happy and settled.

Urfan Sharif, his partner, Beinash Batool and brother, Faisal Malik
Urfan Sharif, left, his wife, Beinash Batool, and brother, Faisal Malik, were jailed. (Submitted)

Muhammed told the BBC he was relieved by the decision and wanted to ensure the children received a good education and care.

"It is my responsibility to ensure they get the best possible education and care," he said.

The children were taken to Pakistan by Sara's father, Urfan Sharif, her stepmother, Beinash Batool, and uncle, Faisal Malik, following her murder in Woking in August 2023.

The three adults went into hiding before the children were found by police at their grandfather's home.

The children were initially placed in state care before their grandfather was granted temporary custody in October 2023.

Sara, 10, was found dead at the family home in Woking after suffering prolonged abuse.

Her father and stepmother were subsequently convicted of her murder and jailed for life, with minimum terms of 40 and 33 years respectively.

Her uncle was convicted of causing or allowing her death and sentenced to 16 years in prison.

Surrey County Council had sought the return of Sara's siblings to Britain through legal proceedings in Pakistan.

However, the authority withdrew from the case in June, saying it was unable to continue pursuing the application in Pakistan as proceedings in England were coming to an end.

Speaking to the BBC following Saturday's ruling, Muhammed said the family would help the children return to a normal life.

He added that they would retain their British passports and could return to the UK when they were older.

Sara's father, Urfan Sharif, was allegedly attacked at HMP Belmarsh on New Year's Day 2025, suffering injuries to his face and neck.

Two prisoners, Steven Sansom, 47, and Adam Watson, 39, have denied attempting to murder him and causing grievous bodily harm with intent. Their trial is scheduled to begin in July 2027.