Police in Lower Dir have arrested a key suspect in the alleged honour killing of 19-year-old orphan Karishma, a case that triggered widespread outrage and protests across the district. The suspect, identified as Gul Bahar, had been absconding since the incident on June 27, according to police officials.
Acting on directives from District Police Officer (DPO) Furqan Bilal, a special team led by SP Investigation Rashid Ahmad, DSP Amjad Khan, SHO Khal, and other officials conducted a raid in the Nawagai area of Rabat on Monday, successfully apprehending the suspect. Police confirmed that Gul Bahar is now being interrogated.
Ongoing Raids and Search for Remaining Suspects
Authorities stated that raids and search operations are continuing to arrest other nominated suspects, including Zorzamin. Lower Dir Police have been actively investigating the sensitive case since day one, utilizing all available resources to ensure all accused are brought to justice.
Karishma, a resident of Kharkai village in Union Council Rabat, was allegedly murdered by her relatives in the name of honour. The incident initially received little attention, but after details circulated on social media, public outrage mounted, prompting swift police action.
Funeral Prayers and Public Demands for Justice
Funeral prayers in absentia for the teenage victim were held at the Rabat Higher Secondary School Ground in a sombre atmosphere. Hundreds of local residents attended, praying for the deceased, expressing solidarity with her family, and demanding exemplary punishment for those responsible.
The killing sparked protests in Rabat, where political and civil society leaders condemned the incident. Addressing demonstrators, Pakistan Peoples Party leader Alam Zeb Advocate, Jamaat-e-Islami leader Shad Nawaz Khan, and Awami National Party leader Malik Muhammad Zeb urged authorities to ensure exemplary punishment for perpetrators in accordance with the law. They also called for stronger measures to protect women and children from violence and honour crimes.
Call for Stronger Legal Protections
Residents and human rights advocates in Lower Dir have urged the government to enforce the law without discrimination and take effective measures to prevent such tragedies in the future. The case remains under investigation, with police committed to arresting all suspects.
