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IO records statement in Naqeebullah murder case

Says former SSP Malir Rao Anwar was present at the scene where 'encounter' took place

Nasir Butt December 15, 2021

KARACHI:

In a significant progress in Naqibullah murder case, Dr. Rizwan, the investigation officer, while recording his statement in the special anti-terrorism court, said that the records showed that former SSP Malir Rao Anwar was present at the scene.

Naqibullah murder case was heard in front of Special Court No. 3 in Anti-Terrorism Complex in Karachi Central Jail. Former SSP Malir Rao Anwar, DSP Qamar and others appeared. Former investigation officer of the case, Dr. Rizwan, also appeared.

The court recorded recording the statement of the IO, Dr. Rizwan. "According to CDR records and geo-fencing, SSP Malir Rao Anwar was present at the scene of the fake police encounter from 2:41pm to 5:18pm on the day of the incident. On January 4, 5, 8 and 9, Rao Anwar also visited Sabzi Mandi police station.

Dr. Rizwan further said that Naqibullah, Hazrat Ali and Qasim were abducted and kept in Sabzi Mandi police station. "Shakeel Feroze, Gadda Hussain and Amanullah Marwat were at the scene a day before the police encounter. The suspects are involved in the incident in the light of statements of other witnesses. The JIT of the case is also present," he said.

The court remarked that at the next hearing, the counsels for the suspects would cross-examine the statement of witness Dr. Rizwan. The court adjourned further hearing of the case till January 3.

Talking to The Express Tribune, Amir Mansoob, counsel for the former SSP Malir, said that the JIT report was not acceptable because it was against Section 19 of the Anti-Terrorism Act. No member of any intelligence agency was included in the JIT in this case.

Amir Mansoob said that CDR and Geo Fencing Expert, Inspector Hanif had already told the court that former SSP Malir was not present at the scene at the time of the encounter. The court has given time for cross-examination, so everything will get clear at the next hearing, he said.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 15^th, 2021.