Journalist Nasrullah Gadani, who was shot and wounded by armed assailants in Mirpur Mathelo a few days ago, passed away at a private hospital in Karachi on Friday.
Gadani, 40, was affiliated with the Sindhi language daily Awami Awaz. Initially treated at a hospital in Rahim Yar Khan, he was later airlifted to Karachi for further care.
His body was transported back to his hometown in an ambulance, with people from various walks of life, including students, stopping along the route to shower the ambulance with rose petals in tribute to the slain journalist.
Upon arrival at Civil Hospital Ghotki, doctors conducted a post-mortem examination before handing over the body to his family after completing medico-legal formalities.
Thousands attended Gadani’s funeral in his native village, Qabool Gadani. The funeral saw a large turnout, including journalists, leaders, and members of several nationalist parties. Gadani was laid to rest in a local graveyard.
Gadani is survived by his widow, four sons, two daughters, and his mother.
Protesters, including a large number of people who blocked the National Highway, demanded the arrest of his killers in front of the SSP office.
Journalists also staged a walkout from the Sindh Assembly session in Karachi, protesting the increasing violence against journalists in Sindh. Home Minister Zia Lanjar and Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon assured the protesters that every possible effort would be made to apprehend the killers, revealing that three suspects had been detained and a breakthrough was anticipated within a week.
The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) condemned Gadani’s murder, criticizing the provincial authorities for their failure to arrest culprits involved in attacks on journalists. PFUJ leaders demanded immediate action and compensation for Gadani’s family.
Press clubs across Sindh hoisted black flags, and journalist bodies held rallies and demonstrations in protest. Civil society organizations also staged a protest outside the Karachi Press Club, demanding justice for Gadani.
The Awami Awaz media group announced a three-day mourning period and planned a protest on May 27 against Gadani’s murder.
PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah expressed condolences and vowed to bring the killers to justice. Various political and civil organizations also paid tribute to Gadani and called for the immediate arrest of his killers, describing his murder as an attack on independent journalism and freedom of expression.
DIG-Sukkur Pir Mohammed Shah stated that Gadani was targeted by armed motorcyclists in broad daylight on May 21. Investigators have collected spent bullet casings from 9mm pistols for forensic analysis to determine if the weapon was used in previous crimes. The investigation is considering several angles, including Gadani’s social media activism, personal enmity, and political affiliation. Investigators have accessed his social media activity and call data records, uncovering clues to identify the killers and their motive.
