The family and legal representatives of Mir Raza Ali have welcomed the establishment of a new investigative team in his murder case, expressing hope that this development will lead to a thorough inquiry into the circumstances of his death and deliver justice.
After meeting with the newly appointed investigators, lawyer Jibran Nasir noted that for the first time, the family was able to fully present their concerns and detailed information about the case without obstruction. The family shared the identities of suspected individuals and highlighted key areas requiring further scrutiny. The team carefully documented all the information and responded to the family’s questions.
Nasir praised the government’s decision to recognize the case as a murder investigation, moving away from the previously promoted suicide theory. He criticized the earlier investigation for its insistence on suicide, which had undermined its credibility. The family had insisted on a team of officers with strong professional reputations, and Nasir expressed satisfaction that such a team had now been assembled to conduct a fresh probe.
Significantly, Nasir raised concerns about a reported failure to deliver DNA and other forensic samples to the laboratory. Although these samples were handed over by the previous investigation officer, they apparently never reached the forensic lab. He described the delay as alarming and difficult to justify, emphasizing that those responsible must explain the lapse. If negligence in handling or preserving forensic evidence is confirmed, serious repercussions could follow.
Despite these issues, the family has decided not to push for a judicial commission or inquiry at this stage, asserting that the police have the constitutional and legal duty to investigate the case. They have informed the Sindh High Court chief justice of their position, expressing confidence in the judiciary. The government has postponed any decision on forming a judicial commission, and the family intends to give the new investigative team a chance to make progress. However, Nasir warned that if the team fails to advance the investigation meaningfully, the family will seek judicial intervention.
Mir Raza Ali went missing on July 28 after leaving his home, and his body was found the next day near Gulistan-e-Jauhar. Initially, the case was treated as a possible suicide, with financial troubles and debts cited as motives. An alleged audio recording related to owed money also surfaced. However, the family rejected the suicide explanation, raising doubts about the circumstances of his death.
Following the family’s objections, the court ordered the exhumation of Mir Raza’s body from Tariq Road graveyard under medical board supervision. The subsequent post-mortem revealed a gunshot wound from behind and other injuries, casting serious doubts on the initial suicide theory and reinforcing the demand for a murder investigation.
The new investigation team is tasked with examining all aspects of the case, including forensic evidence and the circumstances surrounding Mir Raza’s death.
Mir Raza’s father, Mir Hussain, expressed cautious optimism about the progress made during Monday’s meeting. He said the family had fully conveyed their position and answered investigators’ questions, believing the case has now reached a critical phase. Hussain emphasized the importance of allowing the new team sufficient time to conduct its inquiry and determine the facts before drawing conclusions.
He also clarified that the medical board overseeing the post-mortem was formed following a court order, not independently by the police surgeon, addressing ongoing concerns about the case’s handling and forensic procedures.
Nasir reiterated the family’s demand for a transparent investigation led by credible officers and stated they will closely monitor the process. Should the new team fail to deliver results, the family is prepared to seek judicial remedies. For now, they are placing their trust in the renewed police investigation while keeping legal options open.
The delayed submission of forensic samples remains a critical concern and may become a focal point in the ongoing investigation.
