PM Shehbaz Sharif Condemns Balochistan Honour Killing, Vows Swift Justice

Police have arrested 11 suspects, including tribal

leader Sardar Sherbaz Satakzai, Chief Justice

of the BHC has taken suo motu notice

Web Desk

Islamabd\Quetta: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has strongly condemned the recent killing of a man and woman in Balochistan’s Dagari area, calling the act “barbaric” and demanding that the perpetrators face justice under the law. In a phone call with Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti, the Prime Minister emphasized the need for a transparent investigation and strict legal action. “No one can be allowed to take the law into their own hands,” PM Shehbaz said, instructing the provincial government to ensure all culprits are brought to book.

11 Arrested in Viral Balochistan Honour Killing Case

Following the circulation of a graphic video online showing the execution of a couple in a desert area, police have arrested 11 suspects, including tribal leader Sardar Sherbaz Satakzai, who allegedly ordered the killings during a tribal jirga. The video, which shows the victims being shot at close range, has sparked widespread outrage across Pakistan. The case has now been transferred to the Serious Crimes Investigation Wing (SCIW), with all suspects presented before a judicial magistrate. A postmortem revealed the woman, Noor Bano Bibi, was shot seven times, while the man, Ihsanullah, was shot nine times.

Victims Identified, FIR Registered Under Anti-Terrorism Act

According to the FIR lodged by SHO Naveed Akhtar, the couple was accused of an “immoral relationship” and executed after a jirga verdict. The act was filmed and shared online “to spread fear and panic.” The police registered the case under Section 302 of the Pakistan Penal Code and relevant provisions of the Anti-Terrorism Act (1997). DNA samples were collected, and both bodies were exhumed for postmortem analysis.

CM Bugti: “Justice Will Be Served — No Tribal Jirgas Above Law”

Addressing a press conference, Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti condemned the act as “cold-blooded murder,” stating that the victims were not married to each other, but both had children and families. “Nothing justifies such killings. It’s a crime — not a matter of honour,” he said. Bugti confirmed that police action began immediately after the video surfaced. He suspended the local DSP for negligence and assured that more arrests are expected. He dismissed misinformation circulating on social media, clarifying that no one from the victims’ families has yet come forward to file a complaint. “We will not let jirga rulings replace the law. Every person involved will be brought before the courts,” he added.

Balochistan High Court Takes Suo Motu Notice

Chief Justice Rozi Khan Barrech of the Balochistan High Court has taken suo motu notice of the killings. The court has summoned the Chief Secretary (Home) and the Inspector General of Police to appear on July 22 and provide a full briefing. The court action underscores the seriousness of the case, which has triggered nationwide debate over honour killings and the role of parallel justice systems.

Parliamentarians Demand Action

PPP MNA Shazia Marri moved an adjournment motion in the National Assembly, calling the incident a “matter of urgent national and human importance.” She urged the state to become the complainant to ensure an impartial investigation. “Such acts are a violation of Islam, the Constitution, and our collective morality,” she said.

Context: Honour Killings Remain Prevalent

Data from the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan reveals that 346 honour killings were reported in 2024 alone, with many going unpunished due to societal silence and weak prosecution.