Mufti Abdul Qavi investigated over Qandeel Baloch's honour killing

Former Ruet-e-Hilal Committee member was censured for appearing in ‘selfies’ with murdered social media celebrity

LAHORE: Mufti Abdul Qavi, who was censured for appearing in "selfie" photographs with murdered social media celebrity Qandeel Baloch, is being investigated in connection with her killing, police said on Monday.

Qandeel’s brother, Muhammad Waseem, told media he drugged and strangled his sister as she had violated their family's honour with her social media posts, including a series of selfies with Abdul Qavi last month.

Police said Qavi, who was suspended from the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee after the photographs were published, was also part of their investigation into her murder.

Drugged Qandeel before strangling her to death, says brother

"We have decided to widen the scope of the investigation and include Mufti Abdul Qavi in the probe," Azhar Ikram, the Multan police chief told Reuters.

Qavi has denied any involvement in Qandeel’s murder but told Reuters on Monday he would present himself to police for questioning if summoned.

He told media on Saturday Qandeel's death should serve as an example for others who tried to malign the clergy, though he also stated that he had "forgiven her".

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Police were also investigating Qandeel’s other brother, Muhammad Aslam, who is a junior army officer, Ikram said.

After Qandeel’s  death her father, Muhammad Azeem, filed a police report against both his sons, alleging Aslam had encouraged Waseem to carry out the killing.

Police have declined to comment on Aslam's role and he was not available for comment on Monday.

Qandeel Baloch Killing: ‘We are all a part of patriarchy’

Qandeel built a modelling career on the back of her social media fame and was the family breadwinner.

"She was my son, not a daughter. I have lost my son," her father said. "She supported all of us, including my son who killed her."