KARACHI – In a significant development in the high-profile murder case of TV anchor Mureed Abbas and Khizar Hayat, the prime suspect Atif Zaman has denied the killings, seven years after the incident. The statement was recorded under Section 342 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) during a hearing at a sessions court in Karachi. Despite the long-standing allegations, Zaman maintained his innocence before the court.
Case Proceedings and Evidence
Following the suspect’s statement, the court has summoned the lawyers from both sides to present their final arguments on May 14. The prosecution has already completed its phase, submitting statements from eyewitnesses and the Investigating Officer, along with forensic reports of the murder weapon and CCTV footage of the incident.
Background of the Incident
According to the prosecution, Atif Zaman and his brother, Adil Zaman, lured Mureed Abbas and Khizar Hayat to their office before fatally shooting them over a financial dispute. While Atif remains in custody, his brother and co-accused, Adil Zaman, fled the country after his bail was revoked and has since been declared a proclaimed offender.
Final Stage
Counsel for the complainant stated that all substantial evidence has been laid before the court. With the recording of the accused’s statement, the trial has now entered its concluding phase, and a verdict is expected shortly after the final arguments are heard next week.
