MIANWALI: A shocking incident in Mianwali has sparked outrage after a 13-year-old girl was allegedly shot dead by her paternal cousin in a crowded bazaar over a dispute reportedly linked to her not wearing a hijab.
The incident took place in Mauza Baitian, within the jurisdiction of Sadar Police Station in Mianwali, when the minor girl had reportedly left her home to visit a nearby shop. According to the initial account, her cousin intercepted her in the main bazaar, objected to her attire and allegedly opened fire on her before fleeing the scene.
Police sources said the accused fired seven bullets at the girl, who sustained fatal injuries and died at the spot. The killing took place in a public area, leaving residents and eyewitnesses shocked.
A video circulating on social media reportedly shows the girl’s body covered with a white sheet and being carried on a stretcher by rescue personnel and police officials. The footage has drawn public attention to the incident and renewed concerns about violence against women and girls.
Following the shooting, police and Elite Force personnel reached the scene and initiated preliminary proceedings. The victim’s body was subsequently shifted to District Headquarters (DHQ) Hospital Mianwali for a post-mortem examination to establish the cause of death and document the injuries.
DPO orders immediate arrest
District Police Officer (DPO) Mianwali Waqar Azeem Kharal took notice of the incident and directed the relevant police officials to take immediate steps to arrest the suspect.
According to police sources, the DPO sought a detailed report from the Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) of Mianwali Circle and ordered law enforcement teams to pursue the accused without delay.
Special teams, including personnel from the Crime Investigation Agency (CIA) and Sadar Police, have reportedly been formed to trace the suspect. Raids are being conducted at possible locations where the accused may be hiding.
A first information report (FIR) has been registered on the complaint of the victim’s father under murder charges. Police have begun legal proceedings and are collecting evidence to establish the circumstances surrounding the killing.
Security has also reportedly been provided to the victim’s family following the incident.
Motive under investigation
Although initial accounts suggest that the shooting was linked to a dispute over the girl’s failure to wear a hijab, police have not officially confirmed the motive. Investigators are examining the circumstances of the incident and gathering statements to determine what led to the fatal confrontation.
Local sources have claimed that the accused had previously warned the family over the hijab issue. However, these claims remain subject to verification by investigators and should not be treated as an officially established motive at this stage.
The killing has renewed concerns about violence committed in the name of personal beliefs or family honour, particularly when young girls become targets of coercion or abuse.
Residents and rights advocates are likely to demand swift action and accountability as the investigation progresses. The case has also drawn attention to the importance of enforcing laws against murder and so-called honour-based violence.
Police officials have assured that efforts to arrest the suspect are underway. The investigation will determine the motive, establish responsibility and support further legal action in the case.
