Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has authorized an extension of the Mir Raza judicial commission’s investigation until October 15. Mir Raza, a 25-year-old entrepreneur and owner of Karachi’s Wafflix dessert outlet, went missing on July 28 and was found dead the following day in Gulistan-e-Jauhar. Initially, the police classified his death as a suicide; however, his family and legal counsel challenged this narrative, raising concerns about the autopsy and the crime scene’s management.
Subsequently, Karachi Police Surgeon Dr. Summaiya Syed identified more than a dozen flaws in the initial post-mortem report. A second autopsy revealed a gunshot wound on Mir Raza’s upper back along with additional injuries, intensifying public outcry. His death triggered protests across Karachi, with demonstrators demanding a thorough investigation and accountability from the provincial government.
On Monday, the commission’s registrar confirmed that the extension was requested by the commission itself. Meanwhile, the Sindh Home Department’s liaison indicated that the provincial cabinet is scheduled to convene on October 1 to finalize the decision. The commission’s next hearing is set for October 2, following the cabinet meeting, and the session planned for Monday was postponed.
Investigating officer Siraj Lashari and Citizens-Police Liaison Committee (CPLC) representative Muhammad Kashif have been summoned to appear before the commission on October 2 to provide their statements. The family’s lawyer, Jibran Nasir, noted that senior police officials are also expected to receive questionnaires as part of the inquiry. The commission had already informed the Chief Justice on September 22 about the necessity of extending its tenure, with the final approval anticipated at the upcoming cabinet meeting.
The commission, led by Sindh High Court Justice Omar Sial, resumed proceedings on September 22, during which testimonies were taken from several business associates and witnesses. The focus was on Mir Raza’s investments, business activities, and inconsistencies between witness accounts and police records.
Businessman Abid Farooq testified that Mir Raza had offered him a partnership in his restaurant venture in 2020. Abid disclosed investments of Rs7 million in 2024 and Rs7.5 million in 2025, along with an additional Rs10 million in a vehicle-coating business linked to Mir Raza’s family. Although there was no formal written contract, Abid presented transaction records and WhatsApp communications as evidence. He stated that he initially received payments from the business, but these were delayed and ceased by April 2026.
When questioned about Mir Raza’s financial condition, Abid explained that Raza mentioned expanding the restaurant business, which accounted for the payment delays. Abid also observed no significant change in Mir Raza’s behavior during their meetings after April and denied any knowledge of Raza being blackmailed or seeking Rs30 million from anyone.
Abid’s brother, Asif Farooq, who also had business relations with Mir Raza, confirmed their continued good relations and regular contact. The commission completed recording statements from both brothers, further examining the financial and personal aspects surrounding Mir Raza’s case.
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