A Karachi court has sentenced Atif Zaman to death twice for the murder of television anchor Mureed Abbas and another individual, Khizer Hayat, in a case dating back to 2019. The Additional District and Sessions Court delivered the verdict on Thursday, seven years after the killings.
Court Proceedings and Verdict
The jail authorities produced Atif Zaman via video link for the hearing. The court ruled that the prosecution had successfully proven its case beyond a reasonable doubt. Upon conviction, Atif Zaman received two death sentences and was ordered to pay Rs1 million in compensation to the heirs of the victims. The court also issued permanent arrest warrants for co-accused Adil Zaman, who remains at large.
Details of the Incident
According to the prosecution, anchor Mureed Abbas and two other individuals were murdered on July 9, 2019. A case was registered against Atif Zaman and Adil Zaman at the Darakhshan Police Station. The prosecution stated that the brothers killed Mureed Abbas and Khizer Hayat over a business dispute. Adil Zaman went into hiding after the Supreme Court rejected his bail application.
Impact and Aftermath
The verdict brings some closure to the families of the victims, who have waited seven years for justice. The compensation amount is intended to provide financial relief to the heirs. The arrest warrants for Adil Zaman signal the court's determination to ensure all perpetrators face justice. The case highlights the serious consequences of violent disputes and the legal system's commitment to prosecuting such crimes.
