A four-year battle for justice has ended with a violent Ilford man jailed for beating his ex-partner, dragging her into his car and kidnapping her.

Ali Kolliari, of Thurlow Gardens, was sentenced today to seven years having been found guilty of kidnap, actual bodily harm and perverting the course of justice following a five-day trial at Snaresbrook Crown Court in April.

His 34-year-old victim's ordeal began when Kolliari attacked her at her home in July 2010.

The 53-year-old then dragged the woman into his car and drove her around while assaulting her further.

After several hours Kolliari stopped to get a drink, at which point the victim escaped and reported the incident to police.

She suffered heavy bruising to her face and upper body and a bite mark on her arm.

Kolliari first went on trial in March 2011 but the victim refused to give evidence.

With the case on the verge of being discontinued, officers discovered Kolliari had been sending messages to the victim, telling her not to give evidence.

During the trial Kolliari absconded from court and a warrant was issued for his arrest.

The trial was dismissed.

Kolliari was not arrested until he was found in Bedfordshire last July.

The second trial in November resulted in a hung jury.

The re-trial took place in April when he was finally convicted.

Detective Sergeant Arif Siddiq, of Redbridge police, said: "The victim, who was put under great strain, had to testify against Kolliari in court on three separate occasions.

“His sentence should send a clear message that no one is above the law.”