CLAAS-UK condemns Saba Mehboob’s killing and calls for protection of her family as Law Minister orders comprehensive investigation
CLAAS-UK has strongly condemned the killing of 21-year-old Christian woman Saba Mehboob, who was allegedly shot dead inside her family home in Rawalpindi after rejecting the unwanted advances of a Muslim neighbour.
Saba was killed at her parents’ home in the Dhoke Ratta/Ratta Amral area on the night of 3 September. According to the family, the alleged assailant, Adnan Butt, was a neighbour who had reportedly been harassing Saba and making unwanted advances towards her. Saba had rejected his advances, and the family believes her refusal may have contributed to the circumstances leading to the attack.
According to the FIR, Butt allegedly entered the family home armed with a pistol and shot Saba in the forehead, killing her at the scene. The case was subsequently registered at Ratta Amral Police Station as FIR No. 512/26.
The case became even more disturbing following allegations that Saba’s teenage stepbrother was abducted after the shooting and held for approximately 21 hours. He was reportedly threatened with death if he informed police about what had happened.
CLAAS-UK has expressed serious concern for the family’s safety and called on the authorities to ensure they are protected from further threats or intimidation.
Law Minister Orders Investigation
Federal Minister for Law and Human Rights Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar has taken notice of Saba’s killing and contacted the Inspector General of Punjab Police. He reportedly directed the authorities to conduct a comprehensive investigation, examine all aspects of the case on a priority basis and submit a detailed progress report.
Nasir Saeed, Director of CLAAS-UK, said: “I strongly condemn the brutal killing of Saba Mehboob. A young woman of just 21 has lost her life in the very place where she should have felt safest — her own home.
“Every woman has the right to say no. No woman should have to fear harassment, violence or death simply because she rejects a man’s unwanted advances.
“The alleged abduction and threats against Saba’s teenage stepbrother make this case even more disturbing. The authorities must ensure that her family is protected and can pursue justice without fear of intimidation or retaliation.”
Saeed said the case also highlights wider concerns about the safety and security of Pakistan’s Christian minority.
“Christians in Pakistan continue to experience discrimination, marginalisation and vulnerability, particularly those from poor backgrounds. They must never be made to feel that they are inferior citizens. Their lives, dignity and rights are equal to those of every other Pakistani citizen.”
CLAAS-UK welcomed the Law Minister’s intervention but said it must now result in meaningful action. The organisation has called for a full, impartial and transparent investigation, protection for Saba’s family and witnesses, and a thorough investigation into the alleged abduction and intimidation of her stepbrother.
Saeed added: “Saba cannot be brought back to her family, but justice can and must be done. Justice for Saba means establishing the truth, protecting her family and ensuring that everyone proven responsible is held accountable through due process.”
