Tribal Justice: Honour Killing Sparks Outrage in Pakistan

In a shocking case from Balochistan, southwestern Pakistan, police have arrested 14 individuals, including a local tribal chief, in connection with the so-called honour killing of a couple accused of having an affair. The sordid episode came to light after a harrowing video of the couple's murder went viral on social media.

Provincial police chief Moazzam Jah Ansari revealed that the woman's brother acted on their tribe's behalf, shooting the woman under orders from the tribal chief, Sher Baz Satakzai. At a news conference in Quetta, provincial chief minister Sarfraz Bugti promised justice, stating, "We will make sure that they all will be prosecuted."

The public outrage surrounding the incident underscores the persistent issue of honour killings in Pakistan. In 2024, over 405 such cases were reported, with most victims being women. Activists and human rights groups continue to criticize the authorities for their insufficient efforts to eliminate these crimes.

(With inputs from agencies.)