The uncle of the murdered girl and the family of suspect Arsalan, who died during a police encounter, allege that authorities have allowed other suspects—including the shop owner where the crime occurred—to evade responsibility.
Sargodha city police opened a case after the father, Naeem, reported that his eight‑year‑old daughter, Mantaha Zahara, failed to return from the market, prompting a search.
During the search they visited a nearby grocery store run by Hanif. When questioned, the shopkeeper reluctantly said that Arsalan, a store helper, had taken the girl to an upper floor, where she was later found raped and murdered.
The father initially named four suspects—Arsalan, Abbas, Hanif and Hanif’s son Ehsan Ali. Arsalan was later killed, according to police, during an encounter with a CCD team.
Shahid, the victim’s paternal uncle, criticized the investigation, saying police appeared to be protecting the shopkeeper and his son and omitted a fifth suspect from the FIR.
A CCD officer, speaking anonymously to Dawn, explained that the first FIR (No. 103) was filed on June 26 for the rape and murder, while a second FIR (No. 104) concerned Arsalan’s alleged escape from CCD custody. He added that senior police officials have now taken over the investigation.
Arsalan’s parents also contend that their son was made a scapegoat, arguing that the real perpetrators remain free because they wield influence.
The DPO and the SP overseeing the investigation were unavailable for comment, as they were engaged in Muharram security duties.