Family Demands Fresh Probe as Justice Eludes Slain Journalist Shan Dahar

April 13, 2026 – Pakistan –

More than a decade after the killing of Pakistani journalist Shan Dahar, his family and press freedom advocates are intensifying calls for justice, demanding a transparent reinvestigation into a case long marred by delays, inconsistencies, and allegations of police misconduct.

At a press conference held at the Karachi Press Club, Dahar’s family, alongside media rights representatives, urged authorities to reopen the case and ensure the immediate arrest of all those responsible. They argued that despite recent developments, including the arrest of a key suspect, the investigation remains deeply flawed and fails to deliver accountability.

Shan Dahar, whose real name was Zakir Hussain, was a bureau chief for Abb Takk Television. He was shot dead in 2014 in Larkana while pursuing a story, reportedly linked to the illegal resale of medicines. Before his death, he had identified his attackers, a detail frequently cited by advocates as evidence that the case should have been resolved years ago.

Family members and supporters have accused local police of mishandling the case from the outset. They allege that authorities staged superficial actions, including what they described as a “dramatic arrest,” despite prior knowledge that suspects had secured pre-arrest bail. According to the family, such actions point to collusion and deliberate obstruction within the investigative process.

The case has long been criticised by international press freedom organisations, which have documented procedural failures and inconsistencies in the original investigation. Early attempts to classify the killing as accidental gunfire, rather than a targeted attack, further undermined efforts to secure justice.

Recent developments, including the arrest of suspect Irfan Brohi after years as an absconder, have renewed attention on the case. However, Dahar’s family remains sceptical, questioning whether the arrest will lead to meaningful prosecution or simply prolong a pattern of impunity.

In response, the family has called on the Sindh government and senior police leadership to appoint an independent investigator, hold negligent officials accountable, and ensure protection for witnesses and relatives pursuing the case.

The renewed demands highlight broader concerns about journalist safety in Pakistan, where unresolved cases continue to reflect systemic challenges in delivering justice for crimes against the media.

Reference –

https://ifex.org/pakistan-police-announce-arrest-of-suspect-in-2014-murder-of-journalist-shan-dahar/

https://www.dawn.com/news/1991178/fresh-probe-into-journalist-shan-dahar-murder-case-demanded