A local court in Dadu on Monday acquitted all accused in the high-profile triple murder case involving three male members of Umme Rubab Chandio’s family, ending a trial that spanned seven years and drew nationwide attention.
The Model Criminal Court had reserved its verdict on February 27, following over 400 hearings across multiple courts. The case centered on the murder of Umme Rubab’s father, grandfather, and uncle, allegedly linked to their efforts to form a Tamandar Council against the tribal chieftain system in Mehar.
Eight individuals were accused, including influential figures such as Sindh Assembly members Sardar Ahmed Chandio and Burhan Khan Chandio, and former SHO Karim Bux Chandio. Four of the accused were in jail, while four were out on bail.
Public attention
The case gained national attention in 2019 when Umme Rubab protested on the vehicle of then Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Saqib Nisar, citing delays and a lack of justice.
A 2020 inquiry by Sindh Police officer Pir Muhammad Shah had cleared Sardar Chandio and his brother Burhan due to insufficient evidence. Over the years, the case moved through the Anti-Terrorism Court in Naushahro Feroze, Sukkur, and Mirpur Mathelo, before returning to the Sessions Court in Dadu.
Umme Rubab responds to verdict
Speaking to media after the verdict, Umme Rubab said:
“The decision has come from a state court, but the public already knows the truth. We have already won in the court of public opinion.”
She emphasized that “all fingers are not equal” and announced her intention to challenge the decision in both the High Court and the Supreme Court.
Given the sensitive nature of the case, extraordinary security arrangements were implemented ahead of the verdict.
Section 144 was imposed across Dadu, banning gatherings of more than five people. Over 450 police personnel, including DSPs, SHOs, and lady officers, were deployed, while checkpoints on the Indus Highway monitored traffic. Weapons were banned inside the court, and public crowds were not allowed in the premises. Additional security was also provided at Umme Rubab’s residence in Mehar.
