A woman has avoided jail after a child was killed by poison she used in her Shadwell flat. 

Jesmin Akter, 34, was sentenced at the Old Bailey on July 18 after previously pleading guilty to manslaughter following the death of Fatiha Sabrin in December 2021.

Fatiha died on her 11th birthday at her home in Shadwell after being exposed to a chemical that released phosphine gas into the air. 

The colourless and highly toxic gas was produced from a pesticide containing aluminium phosphide that had been used in the flat below at Nida House.

Akter was sentenced to two years' imprisonment, suspended for two years. 

The gas had escaped into neighbouring flats, including that of Fatiah's familyThe gas had 'fatal consequences' (Image: Google Maps) Det Insp Aytac Necati said: “When Akter used the poison in her flat, she did so illegally.

“This was a terrible and reckless decision that resulted in a number of people becoming ill. It had fatal consequences for Fatiha.

“People encountering pest control problems should always seek professional advice or, if they are using commercially available products, they should read and follow the instructions carefully.

“I would like to highlight the work of the team, who carried out a technical and thorough investigation to build the case against Akter, and gave support to Fatiha’s grieving family as this process took place.

“My thoughts and condolences remain with them, as they continue to come to terms with losing their child.”

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Fatiha's family shared their own statement in response to the sentencing. 

They said: “We continue to feel the loss of our beloved Fatiha every day, and think of what she may be doing now, were she still here.

“She was taken from us unexpectedly, and in a very cruel way. Although our hearts are broken, it is some small comfort to know that justice has been done.”