‘No-one should suffer violence or abuse from their partner’

THE family of murdered master’s student Xixi Bi branded the actions of her killer as “gutless” and said the “heart has been ripped out our family”.

In a statement read by Detective Sergeant Hearne, of South Wales Police, on behalf of Ms Bi’s family, it said: “Xixi was a much loved daughter, sister and granddaughter and friend to so many people.

“Xixi was an intelligent and energetic person who had a very bright future and a whole life in front of her.

“All of this was taken away from her and us by the selfish, mindless and gutless actions of Jordan Matthews who brutally killed her for no other reason than jealousy.

“He has wallowed in self pity and has refused to accept the truth.

“The heart has been ripped out of our family. We accept the decision of the court and hope that the sentence imposed on Jordan Matthews will prevent him ever having the opportunity to hurt anyone else and give him time to reflect on his actions.”

A statement was also read out by senior crown prosecutor Ceri Murphy on behalf of the CPS.

She said: “In August last year a young woman lost her life at the hands of someone she trusted.

“Matthews carried out a brutal sustained attack, causing extensive injuries which proved fatal.

“Matthews had previously pleaded guilty to manslaughter, however the prosecution team believed it was in the public interest to seek a trial on the offence of murder due to the injuries sustained, and the nature of the assault.

“No-one should suffer violence, or any form of abuse from their partner, and we urge people in this position to contact someone who can help them.

“The CPS has a robust system in place for assisting those who suffer domestic violence in order to bring cases before the court. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Xixi, and we thank them for their strength and support through this process.”