Murder cases expose investigative failures

MULTAN: A decline in registered murder cases in Khanewal district during the first half of 2026 has been overshadowed by several high-profile killings that remain unresolved, fuelling concern among residents about public safety and the effectiveness of criminal investigations.

Police figures show 43 murder cases were registered in Khanewal district in the first six months of 2026, compared with 60 during the same period last year. While the lower figure points to an improvement in overall crime statistics, a number of serious cases have kept pressure on law enforcement.

Police records also show that theft, motorcycle snatching, land-related disputes, fraud and violent assault continue to rank among the most commonly reported offences in and around Makhdoompur Pahoran. Officials say police responded quickly in many incidents, but several prominent murder investigations are still in progress and suspects have not yet been brought to justice.

Kot Madina killings remain under probe

One of the cases highlighted took place in Kot Madina, where armed robbers allegedly entered a house to carry out a robbery. When family members resisted, the attackers opened fire, killing 34-year-old Farhana Bibi and her 10-year-old son Hassan before escaping with jewellery and mobile phones.

Two younger children who were in the house were not harmed. Police registered a case, gathered forensic material and formed special investigation teams on the directions of the District Police Officer. However, weeks after the incident, no official statement has been issued confirming the arrest of those responsible.

Four men shot near Niazi Chowk

Another case that drew wide attention was the killing of four men near Niazi Chowk in Khanewal. The victims — Abdul Majeed Khan, Ismail Khan, Hidayatullah Khan and Zakaullah Khan — were travelling to Multan for a court appearance when unidentified attackers ambushed their vehicle and fired repeatedly at it.

Police believe the shooting was connected to a long-running family feud. An FIR was lodged against one nominated suspect and seven unidentified individuals. Investigators collected forensic evidence, examined CCTV footage and recorded statements from witnesses. The Inspector General of Police also ordered the immediate arrest of the culprits, but no arrests have yet been officially confirmed.

Ashura day attack near Sarai Sidhu

Violence was also reported during Ashura in Olakh Sindhu, near Sarai Sidhu, where armed men allegedly attacked a family that had gone to a graveyard to offer prayers at the graves of relatives.

The attack left Haq Nawaz dead, while several others, including Khizar Hayat, Samar Abbas and Azhar Abbas, were seriously injured. Police said preliminary findings indicated that the assault stemmed from an earlier dispute that had reportedly begun during a cricket match between children.