11-year-old boy tortured to death

An 11-year-old boy was allegedly tortured to death in Layyah under the pretext of performing rituals.

According to police, a murder case has been registered against a couple, Shahbaz Gul and his wife Martha Shahbaz Gul, residents of Alishan Colony, Layyah, were taken into custody following a complaint filed by the victim's uncle, Ejaz Akhtar of Chak 75 A TDA, Layyah.

According to the First Information Report (FIR), the deceased child, identified as Daim Shahbaz, was subjected to brutal torture. The complainant stated that the accused couple had taken the child from their home about three months ago, claiming they wanted to keep him because they had no son. However, they allegedly subjected the child to severe torture under the pretext of performing spiritual rituals.

The uncle further alleged that the suspects suddenly informed the family about the child's death and delivered the body to them. During the funeral washing (ghusl), the family discovered shocking signs of torture, including burn marks believed to have been inflicted with a hot iron on multiple parts of the child's body.

According to the complaint, the accused not only burned the child with a heated iron but also repeatedly tortured him, which ultimately led to his death.

Police have registered a case and arrested both suspects, who are currently in custody. Initial medical examination has confirmed signs of torture on the child's body.

The Station House Officer (SHO) stated that a thorough investigation is underway and assured that the accused would be brought to justice in accordance with the law.