Fresh probe begins into Hina Javed's murder

A high-level investigation team, led by Additional Inspector General of Punjab's Crime Control Department (CCD) Sohail Zafar Chattha, has launched a fresh probe into the murder of Hina Javed, visiting the crime scene in Lal Kurti and reviewing key evidence, including the victim's DNA report.

The investigation follows special directives from Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif. The victim's DNA report has been received by the team, which is examining the evidence and previous investigative steps to identify any possible lapses or overlooked clues.

According to sources, Chattha arrived in Rawalpindi with the special team and inspected the apartment where Hina was allegedly tortured and murdered on August 20. Rawalpindi City Police Officer Hassan Mushtaq Sukhera, Investigation SSP Saifullah, other senior police officials and the case's investigation officer were also present.

The team was briefed on the progress of the investigation, evidence collected from the scene, and the alleged roles of the suspects named in the case: Hina's husband, Faisal Asghar; domestic employee Zeeshan; and her father-in-law, Ali Asghar. Sources said the victim's husband and the employee had been arrested.

During the visit, Chattha reportedly raised questions about the post-mortem report, the alleged murder weapon, forensic evidence, telephone records and the investigation into the suspects. The team also reviewed the earlier investigation and began interviewing police officers who had worked on the case to determine whether any evidence had been overlooked or investigative shortcomings had occurred.

Inspector Iftikhar Ahmed of the Homicide Investigation Unit has also been included in the special team to strengthen the investigation.

Later, Chattha and Saifullah met Hina's brother, Fahad Javed, and his lawyer, Shah Khawar, at the Police Lines Headquarters in Rawalpindi. According to sources, the committee shared details of the DNA report with the family, while the victim's brother and lawyer conveyed their concerns about the investigation conducted so far.

Chattha assured the family that the case would be investigated transparently, impartially and strictly on merit, and that no significant evidence would be ignored. He also assured them that the remaining forensic reports would be obtained soon.

According to sources, the challan will be submitted to the court after the outstanding forensic reports are received and the investigation is completed.

Hina was allegedly tortured and murdered at a residence in Lal Kurti on August 20.