Hina Javed case: family rejects Police probe, demands judicial inquiry

RAWALPINDI/LAHORE: The family of Hina Javed, who was found murdered at her in-laws’ house, has urged Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif to establish an independent judicial commission, rejecting the findings of police investigation committees and alleging that key evidence has not been properly examined.

In a detailed letter addressed to the chief minister, the family called for a transparent investigation into the case, raising concerns over forensic evidence, allegedly deleted mobile phone data and the direction of the police inquiry. The allegations have not been independently verified.

The family also released an audio recording purportedly involving the brother of the main accused, Faisal. Minute Mirror said the recording was being independently verified. Its contents and authenticity could not be established from the information provided.

Family raises questions over DNA evidence

One of the most serious claims in the letter concerns alleged DNA evidence. The family claims that DNA belonging to Faisal and his father was found on Hina’s neck and questions why the findings have not resulted in further action against them.

The claim requires verification through official forensic reports and investigators’ findings.

The family also alleges that the victim’s father-in-law initially reported a theft or robbery at the house, which they believe diverted attention from the murder. They say the account was later found to be false.

Deleted messages and pending forensic reports

The letter raises concerns about the forensic examination of mobile phones belonging to Hina and the accused. According to the family, important messages were deleted from Hina’s phone before it was handed over to police, prompting demands for the recovery of the data.

They also question why the investigation allegedly shifted towards a domestic servant before mobile phone forensic reports and fingerprint findings were available.

While acknowledging that the servant may be involved, the family alleges that evidence concerning Faisal and his father is being overlooked. These allegations have not been independently established.

Family demands judicial commission

The family argues that police investigation committees should not be treated as substitutes for judicial proceedings or final determinations of guilt. It has called on Maryam Nawaz to personally review the case file and order an independent inquiry headed by a High Court judge.

The family has also appealed to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the army chief to intervene and help ensure a fair investigation.

“We no longer have confidence in the investigation committee’s procedure,” the family said in its appeal, reiterating its demand for an impartial probe and justice under the law.

The case has raised questions about the handling of evidence and accountability in a murder investigation. The family’s allegations, including those concerning DNA evidence and possible evidence tampering, require examination by the relevant authorities.

The Punjab government and police response to the family’s latest demands was not included in the information provided. No allegations against the named individuals should be treated as proven without verified evidence and due legal process.