Balochistan incident: 11, including tribal chief, arrested in honour killing case

In a significant breakthrough in the Balochistan honour killing case involving the brutal murder of a married couple, authorities have arrested 11 suspects, including the chief of the Satakzai tribe.

Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti confirmed the arrests via a statement on social media platform X, emphasizing that operations are progressing effectively and reaffirming the state’s support for the victims.

He vowed that all those involved would be brought to justice.

As part of the ongoing crackdown, police raided the Satakzai House and apprehended tribal chief Sardar Sherbaz Satakzai.

His arrest has triggered a reaction from the Sarawan tribal leadership, who criticized the move, stating that using the incident as a pretext to detain a tribal head is unjustified.

The Balochistan incident, believed to be a case of so-called honor killing, came to light after a disturbing video surfaced online, prompting swift action from the Balochistan government.

A case was registered under state complaint.

Government spokesperson Shahid Rind said the individuals appearing in the video were identified using NADRA records, and while the involved tribes and suspects have been recognized, their names are being withheld for now.

The viral footage of the twin murders in Balochistan, allegedly filmed during Eid al-Adha, shows armed men brutally killing a woman and a man.

The Balochistan woman murder has resurfaced debates on gender violence and the prevalence of honour killings in Pakistan.

According to the Sustainable Social Development Organisation (SSDO), Balochistan reported 32 honour killings in 2024, with only one resulting in a condemnation.