ISLAMABAD: Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Mian Saqib Nisar on Wednesday ordered authorities to ensure the arrest of absconding prime accused, Mujahidullah Afridi, in the Asma Rani murder case within a month.
On February 19, Mujahidullah Afridi was placed on Interpol’s most wanted list.
Asma Rani, a third-year medical student, was allegedly killed by Mujahidullah in Kohat where she had gone for vacations after she had refused his marriage proposal.
Mujahidullah, the nephew of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Aftab Alam fled the country after the murder. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government then approached Interpol to aid in his arrest.
Mujahidullah’s brother Sadiqullah Afridi and two other suspects were also arrested by the police.
A three-judge bench of Supreme Court, headed by Justice Nisar, is hearing the suo motu case of Asma’s murder in Kohat.
During the court proceedings on Wednesday, KP Deputy Advocate General Abdul Latif Yousufzai told the court red warrant was issued against the accused, while police said he would be arrested soon.
On the occasion, the paternal uncle of Afridi appeared before the bench and told the court that a contact has been established with Afridi’s father abroad.
“Sympathy for an absconder wouldn’t last long as the suspect would be brought to justice sooner or later,” the CJP remarked.
The law allowed no mercy for a person absconding from the courts, he added.
“Are you a member of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)?” the CJP asked. Afridi’s uncle responded positively.
At which, Justice Nisar asserted that a case would also be filed against him if his support and involvement proved in the case.
The CJP then urged authorities to ensure the arrest of culprit within a month and adjourned the hearing until next month.