KARACHI:
A young couple was shot dead in another honor killing in Machar Colony on Tuesday evening, police said on Wednesday.
Zainab, 21, and her husband Atiq, 23, entered into a love marriage in Peshawar against the wishes of their families and later fled to Karachi, fearing for their lives, police said.
The couple was allegedly shot dead by Zainab’s father inside their house near Ayesha Primary School in Mauripur Chowk in the jurisdiction of Docks police station.
Police said Zainab had remained in touch with her father after moving to Karachi and had arrived at the couple’s home three days before the murder.
On Tuesday evening, the couple and Zainab’s father went to sleep in the house. However, he allegedly woke up during the night and shot his daughter and son-in-law dead before fleeing.
According to preliminary reports, Atiq was killed instantly, while Zainab was seriously injured. Both were rushed to the Civil Hospital, where Zainab later succumbed to her injuries during treatment.
Police recovered four spent 9mm shells from the crime scene, which were sent for forensic analysis. Surveillance was increased at bus and railway stations amid fears that the suspect might try to flee to Peshawar.
Hospital sources said Zainab received three gunshot wounds to her face and head. After forensic formalities, the bodies were shifted to a mortuary in Chhipa. Police said a case has been registered and a manhunt is on for the suspect.
