A married couple was shot dead in Karachi’s Machar Colony in a shocking incident described by police as a so-called honour killing. The victims had married with mutual consent and were living quietly in a rented home when the attack occurred. The incident has once again highlighted the persistence of honour-based violence in Pakistan.
According to police officials, the attack took place inside a residence near Ayesha Masjid in Machar Colony. The man died at the scene after being shot, while his wife sustained critical gunshot injuries. She was rushed to Civil Hospital Karachi along with her husband’s body. However, doctors later confirmed that the woman also succumbed to her injuries during treatment.
Father accused of carrying out the attack
Investigators identified the woman’s father as the prime suspect in the killings. Police said the suspect allegedly opened fire on the sleeping couple before fleeing the scene. Four spent bullet casings were recovered during an initial search of the house, strengthening the case against him.
Senior police officials stated that the couple had married of their own free will. They also had a four-month-old daughter. The family had been residing in Machar Colony for around five months prior to the incident. According to investigators, the woman had contacted her father several days earlier, after which he came to stay with them.
Investigation underway as suspect remains at large
Law enforcement authorities have launched a search operation to arrest the suspect. Police teams are gathering witness statements and forensic evidence to strengthen the case. Officials confirmed that legal proceedings are being initiated under relevant criminal laws.
Police stressed that honour-related violence has no justification under law. They reiterated that such crimes are treated as murder, regardless of the motive claimed by perpetrators. Moreover, authorities said they would pursue the case vigorously to ensure accountability.
Pattern of honour-based violence in Karachi
This incident follows a disturbing pattern of honour-related killings reported in Karachi and other parts of the country. Earlier this month, another woman and her teenage daughter were killed in a similar crime in the city. These repeated incidents continue to raise concerns about women’s safety and entrenched cultural attitudes.
Human rights data shows that honour killings remain a serious national issue. Throughout 2024, hundreds of people lost their lives in such crimes across Pakistan. Sindh and Punjab recorded particularly high numbers, reflecting deep-rooted social pressures tied to family honour and control.
Calls for stronger enforcement and awareness
Rights activists argue that stronger law enforcement and social awareness are essential to curb honour-based violence. While legal reforms exist, inconsistent implementation remains a challenge. Therefore, experts stress the need for sustained education, community engagement, and swift justice.
The Machar Colony tragedy stands as another painful reminder that honour killings continue to destroy families and futures. Ending such violence requires not only punishment for perpetrators but also a collective rejection of harmful social norms.
