Death in police custody: Sindh govt orders judicial inquiry
By Our Staff Reporter

KARACHI, Oct 24: The Sindh government has ordered a judicial inquiry into the killing of alleged terrorist, Fasih Ahmed alias Jugnu, in the CIA custody soon after he was picked up on Friday for his reported involvement in the assassination of Hakim Said.

This was stated by Sindh Chief Minister Liaquat Ali Jatoi while informally talking to newsmen at the Governor's House on Saturday after three new ministers of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement were administered oath.

The chief minister, however, appealed to the press not to publish reports based on speculations about killers as it could hamper investigations.

"The killers of Hakim Said will be exposed. I have issued instructions to the police that whoever they may be, even if his own relations are found involved, they should not be spared and brought to book," he said.

Warning of severe action against criminals, he said onwards no one would be allowed to take out processions, hold rallies and public meetings until terrorism is eliminated and peace is restored in the city.

He called upon the opposition, religious organisations and political parties to come forward and join hands with the government to restore law and order and make the city once again a city of lights.

About Muttahida's decision to rejoin the government, he said the Muttahida would play its role in the restoration of law and order in the city and positive results would accrue from it.

It would also help strengthen the democratic process in Sindh and serve the people in a better way.

He said assassination of Hakim Said was not an ordinary tragedy. It was the murder of an important personality and no one could afford to hide its facts.

It was being investigated from different aspects, and I would request the newsmen not to indulge in speculative reporting which could misdirect the probe.

Mr Jatoi said: "Life is a trust of Allah and no one has a right to take life of any human being. I am aware of the fact that one day I also have to appear before God. I will make all facts public about the murder of Hakim Said.

The chief minister said: "The maintenance of law and order in Sindh, particularly in Karachi, is a big challenge to me and my allies which we have decided to accept it. I too have my family and small children. I will like that like all other citizens, my children should also have protection".