Slain Mir Raza’s family files petition in SHC for JIT probe

KARACHI: The family of the slain Mir Raza on Monday filed a petition in the Sindh High Court (SHC) requesting the formation of a Joint Investigation Team (JIT) to probe his murder, ARY News reported.

The SHC is likely to conduct an initial hearing on the matter today.

Meanwhile, the family has rejected the Sindh government’s decision to establish a judicial commission to investigate the killing.

“We will pursue a JIT,” the family said.

The family said it had already made it clear that it did not want a judicial commission.

The family members said they would file a petition in the Sindh High Court tomorrow seeking the formation of a joint investigation team (JIT).

Earlier, the Sindh government on Sunday approved the formation of a judicial commission to investigate the murder of young businessman Mir Raza.

The summary for the judicial commission was formally approved through circulation by members of the Sindh cabinet.

A serving judge of the Sindh High Court (SHC) will conduct the inquiry.

The cabinet has requested the Chief Justice of the SHC to nominate a judge for the commission, established under Section 3 of the Sindh Tribunals of Inquiry Ordinance, 1969.

Additionally, the cabinet approved the Terms of Reference (TORs) for the murder investigation. The murder case was originally registered at Ferozabad Police Station.

A spokesperson for Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah stated that the CM has expressed deep sympathy with the family of the late Mir Raza, emphasizing that he took the concerns expressed by the young businessman’s family seriously.

According to the spokesperson, Chief Minister Shah received a letter written by Raza’s family requesting an investigation. The newly formed judicial commission will now conduct a transparent and impartial probe into the case.

The commission will review discrepancies in the initial investigation, examine further evidence, and scrutinize the roles of police officers, medico-legal officers, and other officials involved.

It will also recommend actions for any shortcomings in official duties or evidence tampering. Furthermore, the commission holds the authority to conduct further investigations and order forensic reviews.

Under the inquiry ordinance, the judicial commission carries the powers of a civil court. Chief Minister Shah has directed all government departments and officials to fully cooperate with the commission.