KARACHI: Details of the 19 questions put to Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Amir Farooqi, who heads the investigation team in the Mir Raza case, and his responses before the judicial commission have surfaced.
During the proceedings, the commission questioned Farooqi about various aspects of the investigation, including the handling of evidence, preservation of the crime scene and examination of possible motives.
In his replies, Farooqi maintained that the previous investigation had not revealed any deficiencies that could have compromised the probe. He said statements recorded by Shabbir Laghari, who had personally recorded only 10 of the 33 statements, were included in the investigation file.
The DIG stated that evidence had been collected in accordance with the law. However, he acknowledged procedural irregularities during the initial stages concerning the preservation of the body and protection of the crime scene.
Farooqi expressed satisfaction with the steps taken to secure the site but observed that recovering the holster, lighter, cigarette packet and bullet casing on the first day would have been preferable.
Describing the location, he told the commission that the terrain was uneven, with bushes, grass and rubbish scattered around. The spot where the fire was set was approximately 15 feet from the place where the body was discovered.
He said several details were relevant to reconstructing the incident, including the location of the holster and bullet casing, the victim’s personal belongings, the position of the body on sloping ground and grass found in the victim’s hand. He added that the amount of blood visible on the ground depended on the body’s position.
Cryptocurrency records and financial details awaited
The commission also sought clarification on whether investigators had explored possible motives involving extortion, the forced collection of money, blackmail or threats.
Farooqi responded that the investigation was proceeding with different possible scenarios under consideration.
He said information regarding Mir Raza’s cryptocurrency trading activities and accounts had been obtained from the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA). However, further information concerning cryptocurrency transactions and financial matters was still awaited from the NCCIA and the State Bank of Pakistan.
According to Farooqi, all records received from the relevant institutions would be incorporated into the investigation file. Investigators would analyse the information before submitting their findings to the court.
The commission also raised concerns about the conduct and contacts of an individual, observing that the matter warranted detailed questioning.
DIG denies discussing leniency for additional police surgeon
Farooqi denied having discussed extending leniency to the additional police surgeon.
He further told the commission that investigators had made efforts to maintain the confidentiality of digital evidence. However, he said several details had surfaced in the media even before the investigation formally began.
The DIG added that investigators were examining the conduct of police officials and other individuals connected with the case. He assured the commission that strict action would be taken against anyone found to have breached the law.
