Education officer’s murder: Family awaits justice as first death anniversary draws near

LANDIKOTAL: As the first anniversary of female education officer Rizwana Shaheen’s tragic murder approaches, her family still awaits justice.

Speaking to The News, the family members, including her sister Nadia Khan and others, expressed their grief and shock over Rizwana’s brutal murder in Landikotal on June 17, 2023. Nadia said Rizwana was dedicated to education and emphasised on her tireless work in challenging regions such as Waziristan and Khyber districts.

Assistant District Education Officer (ADEO) Rizwana Shaheen, known for her unwavering commitment to promoting girls’ education in the remote areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, was found dead in her official residence on June 17, 2023, with multiple stab wounds.The horror of that day led to the swift arrest of her husband, Najibullah, and his accomplices, who now face charges under Section 302 of the Pakistan Penal Code.

Nadia revealed that a two-member committee, comprising Deputy Public Prosecutor Zulfiqar Ali and Assistant Public Prosecutor Zubair Qureshi, was formed to investigate the murder. The committee collected evidence, including the murder weapon and mobile phone data records. Despite statements being recorded from all parties over the past year, justice has yet to be served, she added.

Nadia Khan, who is also a civil servant, mentioned that Najibullah, the main accused, confessed during the initial investigation and was arrested from his residence in Kotka Muhammad Khan, Domail tehsil Bannu district. She said the case is currently undergoing trial, with the prosecution presenting evidence and witnesses.

She added that Rizwana’s minor children, who witnessed the horrific murder, remain in shock and are not yet back to normalcy. Legal custody and guardianship of Rizwana’s children have been granted to her maternal side to ensure their well-being and protection.

Rizwana’s family reiterated their demand for justice, urging the court to award the death sentence to the murderer without further delays. Despite the investigation committee’s efforts and the police’s investigation, the family continues to await a conviction to conclude the case. They remain resolute in their pursuit of accountability for Rizwana’s brutal murder, demanding answers, accountability, and closure for the cold-blooded crime that ended the life of an educator and mother.