LEGAL

The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Karachi has granted a 4-day physical remand of accused Armaghan in the case of journalist Nadeem Ahmed’s shooting outside a private TV channel’s office. The court has directed police to recover weapons and complete the investigation while ensuring that the suspect is not tortured in custody.
Court Proceedings and Allegations of Torture
During Friday’s hearing, police officials presented Armaghan, also linked to the high-profile Mustafa murder case, before the ATC. Investigators stated that the accused had opened fire on journalist Nadeem Ahmed, and the victim had identified him.
When asked by the court if he had been mistreated, Armaghan claimed police tortured him and burned his neck with a matchbox. However, upon inspection, the court found no burn marks. The judge ordered the suspect to be presented again on March 18.
Background: Armaghan’s Alleged Involvement in the Mustafa Murder Case
The case against Armaghan extends beyond the journalist’s shooting, with his alleged role in the murder of Mustafa Amir revealing shocking details:
- Mustafa Amir went missing on January 6 from the Defence area.
- His mother received a ransom demand of Rs 20 million from an American number on January 25.
- The Anti-Violent Crime Cell (AVCC) took over the case, eventually arresting Armaghan on February 9 after a gunfight, during which a DSP and his bodyguard were injured.
The Murder Conspiracy and Body Disposal
Initially, Armaghan confessed to murdering Mustafa and dumping his body in Malir but later retracted his statement. However, after the arrest of his accomplice, Shiraz, the full story emerged:
- Mustafa was tortured and killed on January 6 at Armaghan’s house.
- The body was transported to Hub and set on fire to destroy evidence.
- Shiraz identified the crime scene, leading police to recover Mustafa’s burned vehicle and locate his remains, which had been buried by a charity organization after being handed over by Hub police.
Interpol Tracking Key Witness Abroad
A Dawn News report on February 15 suggested the dispute between Mustafa and Armaghan was over a girl, who left Pakistan on January 12. Investigators are now contacting her through Interpol, as her testimony is considered crucial to the case.
Unanswered Questions and Ongoing Investigation
- Mustafa’s original mobile phone is still missing.
- The murder weapon and further digital evidence are yet to be recovered.
- Police continue to investigate whether Armaghan had other accomplices and the exact motive behind the killing.
As the case unfolds, authorities are now focusing on exhuming Mustafa’s body for a post-mortem, ensuring all evidence is properly documented. The developments in the coming days will determine Armaghan’s fate and the extent of his involvement in both cases.