QUETTA – A gruesome video showing the cold-blooded killing of a man and woman in Balochistan has triggered national outrage and swift action from provincial authorities, prompting Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti to launch an immediate inquiry on Sunday.
The disturbing clip, reportedly filmed during Eid al-Adha, shows armed men shooting the couple at close range in an unidentified tribal region of the province.
Government Registers Case Despite No Family Complaint
Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind confirmed that the provincial administration has taken suo motu notice of the killings. “Although the victims’ family did not report the incident, we are pursuing this as a state-led prosecution,” he stated.
The government has already made progress in the investigation, with one suspect arrested and others being pursued. The viral footage has been sent to the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) for biometric analysis, which has helped officials identify individuals and tribal affiliations involved in the murder. However, their names have not yet been disclosed for security reasons.
Bugti Vows Justice: ‘State Will Not Remain Silent’
In a strong statement, CM Sarfraz Bugti condemned the act as a “brutal insult to human dignity and societal values.” He directed law enforcement agencies to escalate the investigation and ensure swift arrest and prosecution of all culprits.
“These brutal actions are a stain on our society. No one is above the law,” Bugti stated, adding that the tribal councils (jirgas) do not have legal authority to resolve criminal cases under Pakistani law.
Civil Society, Legal Experts Demand Accountability
The horrific incident has sparked widespread anger among civil society groups and human rights organizations. The Sustainable Social Development Organisation (SSDO) reported that 32 honour killings occurred in Balochistan in 2024 — but only one conviction was recorded.
Legal experts argue that outdated cultural practices and weak enforcement of existing laws are the key reasons such crimes persist.
“Allowing tribal or informal justice systems to operate above the law fuels impunity and gender-based violence,” said a legal analyst on condition of anonymity.
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Victim’s Body Still Missing; Public Asked to Help
While the probe is ongoing, authorities have yet to recover the body of the female victim, raising concerns about the scope of the crime. Officials are urging the public to assist law enforcement in identifying more suspects seen in the video.
The Balochistan CM has pledged complete transparency and justice, reaffirming that the provincial government will not tolerate “honour”-based violence in any form.
