The investigation into the tragic killing of three minor siblings in Lahore’s Ichhra area has taken a crucial turn, focusing on the suspected involvement of their mother, Rida, and her alleged connection to a man from Jhang. The children, two daughters and a son, were reportedly murdered earlier this week.
Authorities have uncovered that Rida maintained frequent communication with a man named Shehryar through WhatsApp and phone calls. Financial transactions between the two were also traced via mobile applications, suggesting a close relationship. Investigators believe Rida intended to divorce her husband, Ramzan, and marry Shehryar, viewing her children as obstacles to this plan. However, officials emphasize these allegations remain unproven and are part of an ongoing inquiry.
Ramzan was initially detained but later released after no direct involvement in the crime was established. Meanwhile, Shehryar is expected to be summoned for questioning as the investigation advances.
In a significant development, CCTV footage captured the suspect leaving the residence shortly after the murders. She appeared calm, surveyed the surroundings, and then left the scene. Investigators estimate the killings occurred before 10 a.m., with early evidence suggesting an attempt to alter the crime scene.
The accused has been remanded in police custody for five days to facilitate further interrogation. Police revealed that Rida initially tried to shift blame onto her in-laws and provided inconsistent statements, including claims of feeling unwell and that the children were alive when she left the house. Discrepancies in her account, combined with call detail records, led to a breakthrough, after which she allegedly confessed to the killings.
Forensic results are still pending, and authorities will finalize conclusions once the investigation is complete. The case came to light on Thursday, April 23, when police responded to a report of three children found dead in their home. The victims were identified as five-year-old Momina Batool, four-year-old Momin Raza, and one-and-a-half-year-old Ume Habiba.
In her initial statement, the suspect admitted to murdering her children, citing her husband’s frequent questioning of the children’s legitimacy as a motive. She also revealed plans to commit suicide following the murders.
