Justice for Balochistan Couple: 11 Arrested in Brutal ‘Honour’ Killing as Case Sparks National Outrage

Tribal Brutality Exposed: 11 Arrested in Shocking Double Murder in Balochistan

BALOCHISTAN — A gruesome case of so-called ‘honour’ killing in Pakistan’s Balochistan province has ignited national fury after a video showing the execution of a couple in a desert went viral on social media. At least 11 suspects, including a prominent tribal leader, have been arrested in connection with the murders, with the case now transferred to the Serious Crime Investigation Wing (SCIW), according to police.

SP SCIW Syed Saboor Agha confirmed, “All arrested individuals, including the tribal leader who ordered the killing, are set to appear before a judicial magistrate today.”

The Viral Horror: Execution Caught on Camera

The disturbing footage showed armed men dragging Bano Bibi and Ihsanullah out of vehicles before executing them in a desert area near Sanjidi, Dagari. The couple was accused of an ‘immoral relationship’ under the tribal code of Karo Kari, and their deaths were ordered by a local jirga.

Police confirmed the video was used to instill fear in the public. SHO Naveed Akhtar stated that the FIR was registered after the video surfaced, and immediate investigations traced the murder site to Dagari, just days before Eidul Azha.

Case Escalates to Serious Crime Wing and Anti-Terrorism Court

The FIR includes sections under the Pakistan Penal Code — 302 (murder), 148, 149, 147 (rioting and unlawful assembly) — and the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997. The primary suspect, Sardar Sherbaz Satakzai, was presented before an anti-terrorism court, where he was handed over to SCIW on a two-day remand.

The Chief Justice of the Balochistan High Court, Rozi Khan Barrech, also took notice and summoned both the chief secretary and inspector general of police to court on July 22.

Nationwide Condemnation: Leaders and Activists React

Outrage poured in from across the political spectrum:

• Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Chairman PPP, called the killers “beasts” and stressed this case must be a test for the Balochistan government.

• Senator Sherry Rehman labeled the act as “unforgivable gender terrorism” and demanded legislation to end such outdated tribal customs.

• Defence Minister Khawaja Asif urged local Baloch communities to direct their anger toward the injustice within instead of outsiders.

• Baloch activist Sammi Deen Baloch called for tribal elders to respect women’s decisions, highlighting the growing empowerment and awareness among Baloch women.

A Grim Pattern: The Rise of ‘Honour’ Killings in Pakistan

This incident adds to a disturbing trend. According to the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, 346 people were killed in the name of ‘honour’ across the country in 2024 alone, with Punjab and Sindh reporting the highest numbers.

These killings continue to be fueled by deep-rooted patriarchal norms and tribal codes, often upheld by informal justice systems like jirgas, which defy state laws and human rights.

Time for Change: Outdated Traditions vs Human Rights

The execution of a couple for marrying by choice reflects the clash between tribal customs and modern human rights. Despite growing legal frameworks and activism, enforcement remains weak in rural areas.

Activists and lawmakers agree: "Jirga justice" must end. Customary laws that infringe on constitutional rights can no longer be tolerated. The government’s response to this case could set a powerful precedent for challenging impunity and protecting the rights of women and marginalized communities.

Conclusion: Justice Must Be Swift and Transparent

As the nation reels from this heinous act, the call for swift and transparent justice grows louder. The state must not only prosecute the perpetrators but also dismantle the systems that enable such violence.

This is not just about one couple. It is about ending a culture of fear and oppression masked as tradition. For Bano Bibi, Ihsanullah, and hundreds of others lost to 'honour' killings — justice delayed is justice denied.