KARACHI:
In a shocking incident on Sunday, the bodies of three transgender individuals were found dumped in bushes near the Nagori Cooperative Housing Society, along the M-9 Motorway. Police confirmed their identities later through fingerprint records.
According to SSP Malir Abdul Khaliq Pirzada, all three victims were shot once two in the chest and one in the head. The evidence suggests they were killed on the spot, as two spent bullet casings were recovered nearby. Two of the bodies lay close together, while the third was discovered a short distance away, raising suspicion that one of the victims may have tried to flee. The condition of the bodies indicated they had been killed only a few hours earlier, though an exact time of death will be determined by the Medical Legal Officer.
From the scene, investigators collected two 9mm casings, a torch, a roll of tissue, and other items. Police are working to establish whether a single weapon or multiple firearms were used. With no CCTV cameras in the immediate area, authorities are reviewing footage from surrounding points. SSP Pirzada noted that some items suggested the victims were familiar with the location and had likely visited it before.
The deceased were later identified as 20-year-old Alex Riyasat alias Aini, son of Riyasat Masih from Sheikhupura; 28-year-old Muhammad Jeel alias Sameera, son of Muhammad Murad from Khairpur; and a third individual known only by the alias Asma. No mobile phones or personal belongings were recovered from their bodies.
Transgender Rights Group Condemns Killings
The Gender Interactive Alliance (GIA), a prominent transgender rights organisation, issued a statement condemning the murders. It said the victims, Asma, Sameera, and Aini, were residents of Bilawal Goth and Safora Town. According to the group, the three had left their homes to beg for alms but never returned.
The GIA accused perpetrators of systematically targeting the transgender community. “This is not just the murder of three individuals it is an attempt to silence and terrorise the entire community,” the statement read. The organisation called on the Sindh government to ensure a transparent investigation, immediate arrests, and the creation of a dedicated protection unit for transgender citizens. It also demanded stricter enforcement of laws to curb hate crimes.
Community Protests and Political Response
In response, members of the transgender community staged a protest outside Jinnah Hospital. The demonstration was led by rights activist Bindiya Rana, who condemned the killings and announced province-wide protests. “These incidents have created deep fear within our community,” Rana said, questioning whether transgender people should stop leaving their homes altogether.
Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah also took notice of the case and directed the Inspector General of Police to ensure the killers are arrested without delay. Calling the victims part of an “oppressed section of society,” the CM stressed that the state would not tolerate such crimes against vulnerable citizens.
