A shocking new development has emerged in the honor killing case in Daggari, Balochistan, as the mother of the murdered woman, Bano, has released a video statement. In the video, she describes her daughter’s killing as a punishment under tribal customs and defends the local tribal chief, Sardar Sher Baz Satakzai, declaring him innocent and appealing for his release.
According to Bano’s mother, her daughter violated tribal norms and was punished in accordance with Baloch traditions. She asserted that Sardar Satakzai was neither involved in the decision nor had any role in the execution of the act.
This statement comes at a time when police action is underway. Following the viral circulation of a horrifying video of the execution, Quetta police have arrested 13 out of 20 suspects, including Bano’s cousin and Sardar Satakzai himself.
For more on the arrests, including the tribal chief’s involvement and current investigation updates, read the full report here.
The gruesome incident took place on July 19, when Bano and a man named Ehsanullah were brought before a tribal jirga. After allegations were reportedly proven, they were shot dead in an open field. The video footage captured on a mobile phone sparked widespread outrage across the country.
Authorities have stated that the victims were not married. Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti confirmed that Bano was a married woman and mother of five. He condemned the killings as brutal murder, not justice, saying:
“We stand with the victims and will bring the killers to justice. The state will never allow such barbarism.”
Police sources revealed that Bano and Ehsanullah had been in hiding for over a year and were allegedly lured back to the area under the pretext of a family gathering—only to be executed as per a premeditated plan.
Human rights organizations have expressed deep concern over Bano’s mother’s statement, warning that such declarations can undermine the judicial process and set a dangerous precedent for the safety and rights of women. Social media is ablaze with condemnation, calling for accountability and protection of victims, regardless of tribal customs.
