First investigation team destroyed evidence in Mir Raza case, says judicial commission

The judicial commission held a meeting on Thursday under the chairmanship of Justice Umar Sial to examine the investigation into the Mir Raza case. Commission Chairman Justice Umar Sial expressed strong displeasure with the Health Secretary and Director General Health, saying they had unlawfully intervened in the case by forming a medical board and making changes to its composition.

The commission said the first investigation team, headed by SSP Samiullah Soomro, had damaged the case within six days. It said footage from only one of 52 cameras was obtained, while bushes at the crime scene were burned.

The commission observed that the first investigation team had destroyed evidence and shifted the responsibility onto its subordinates. The commission summoned Health Secretary Tahir Hussain Sangi and questioned him about his appointment, noting that two witnesses had mentioned his name.

The commission also asked whether Dr Osama worked under him. Tahir Hussain replied that Dr Osama Sheikh worked under the health department. Justice Umar Sial remarked that Dr Osama was not only making the commission controversial but his actions were also making the Health Department controversial.

Justice Umar Sial said the judicial commission was hopeful of completing its proceedings by Monday, after which work on preparing its report would begin.