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Summary
Musarat Aziz, a local advocate for women's rights and education, was shot dead by her brother during a family meeting in Zhob, Pakistan, amid disputes over her social activism. Police have detained the suspect and his wife as investigations continue into this tragic incident.
On Jan. 1, 2025, Musarat Aziz was shot and killed by her brother during a family meeting at her residence in Zhob, Pakistan. According to Dawn news, the confrontation reportedly stemmed from ongoing tensions regarding Ms. Aziz’s commitment to social and human rights initiatives, which her brother opposed.
According to police reports, the suspect – who is yet to be identified – and his wife forcibly entered the home where family members were convened to discuss Ms. Aziz’s future in her community role. Eyewitness accounts indicate that the meeting aimed to address her continued involvement in empowering local women through vocational training at the Toheed Technical Centre in Zhob, where she had taught for the past two years.
Authorities were alerted shortly after the shooting, and police promptly arrived at the scene, transferring Musarat’s body to the district hospital where medical officials confirmed she suffered multiple bullet wounds that resulted in her immediate death.
“She was a dedicated advocate for women’s rights, and her commitment to helping others was unwavering,” a close family friend remarked. “It is heartbreaking that her life was cut short due to her noble work.”
The police have since apprehended the suspect and his wife for further questioning. A case has been officially registered, and investigations are ongoing as the community grapples with the shock of this violent act.
Musarat Aziz, who was also a widow, was known for her tireless efforts in teaching technical skills to women, enabling them to gain financial independence. Her contributions to the community were seen as a beacon of hope, challenging traditional norms and empowering women in the region.
As the investigation unfolds, local activists and community members are calling for justice and an end to violence against women advocating for their rights.
According to research, honour killings have spiked by 81% since 2021. Despite laws that speak against it, RFERL reported in 2023 that honour killings have been continuously carried out against women in Pakistan.
