Authorities in Pakistan have arrested 11 individuals following the circulation of a disturbing video on social media that captured the execution of a man and a woman in an alleged honour killing. The couple, whose names have not been released, were murdered last month in Balochistan province after reportedly marrying without the consent of their families—a decision that triggered a violent response orchestrated by a local tribal council.
The video, which went viral online, prompted provincial authorities to launch an investigation. Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti confirmed on Monday that all individuals seen in the footage had been identified and that formal charges had been filed against them. He assured the public that those responsible would face full legal prosecution.
The footage, set in a remote desert area, shows several vehicles, including trucks and SUVs, indicating that the perpetrators had traveled specifically to carry out the act. In a haunting scene, the woman is seen holding a copy of the Quran. She addresses a man, instructing him in the Brahavi language: “Come walk seven steps with me, after that you can shoot me.” The man complies, and as they walk together, she remains composed, showing no signs of panic or pleading for mercy.
“You are allowed only to shoot me. Nothing more than that,” she says, her words translated by a local police official. The exact meaning of her statement remains unclear.
The video then shows the man firing at the woman from close range. After two shots, she remains upright, only collapsing after the third. Moments later, a volley of gunfire follows, revealing the body of a bloodied man lying next to hers. Several armed men continue shooting at both victims.
Reuters noted it was unable to independently verify the authenticity of the video.
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan condemned the incident, highlighting the alarming frequency of such crimes. According to the organization, at least 405 honour killings were reported in 2024 alone. Most of these victims are women, often killed by relatives attempting to “protect” family honour.
Despite laws outlawing honour-based violence, enforcement remains weak, particularly in conservative and rural areas where tribal customs often override legal authority. — SCMP
Image— Fayyaz Ahmed/EPA
