An anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Karachi has extended the physical remand of Armaghan Qureshi, the prime suspect in the Mustafa Amir abduction and murder case, and his accomplice Shiraz Bukhari by another five days. This is the second extension, following an initial four-day remand granted on February 18 and a previous five-day extension on February 22.
The case involves the alleged kidnapping and murder of Mustafa Amir, a BBA student who disappeared on January 6. Armaghan Qureshi was apprehended after opening fire on an Anti-Violent Crime Cell (AVCC) team during a raid on his DHA residence. Mustafa’s body, recovered near the Hub checkpost and initially buried by the Edhi Foundation, was later exhumed and identified through DNA profiling.
During the court hearing, the prosecution requested the remand extension, citing the need to record the statement of a girl allegedly tortured by the suspects and to document witness statements. Armaghan’s lawyer opposed the extension, alleging inhumane treatment, including denial of food and restroom access. The court dismissed these claims as unrealistic.
The defense demanded prior notification for witness statement recordings and a medical examination of Armaghan. The prosecution argued the case’s public outrage and the investigation into possible money laundering and drug trafficking links.
The court was also informed that a joint investigation team (JIT) led by CIA DIG Muqaddas Haider has been formed. The court granted Armaghan’s parents visitation rights, ordered a medical examination, and extended the remand of both suspects.
Investigations have also revealed Armaghan’s involvement in illegal activities, including operating merchant accounts for fraudulent money transfers. He allegedly converted millions of dollars into digital currency since 2017, using virtual cards for ATM withdrawals, making it difficult to trace the funds.
Sindh’s Inspector General of Police (IGP) and other top police officials have been summoned to the Chief Minister House for a briefing on the case’s progress.
