DADU: A local court in Dadu on Monday acquitted all accused in the high-profile triple murder case involving the family of Umme Rubab Chandio, bringing an end to a seven-year-long trial that had drawn significant public attention across the country.
The verdict was announced by the Model Criminal Court, which had reserved its decision on February 27 after conducting around 400 hearings over several years. The case revolved around the killings of Umme Rubab’s father, grandfather, and uncle, allegedly carried out by influential individuals in Mehar due to their opposition to the tribal chieftain system.
According to case records, eight individuals were nominated as accused, including Sindh Assembly member Sardar Ahmed Chandio, his brother Burhan Chandio, and former SHO Karim Bux Chandio. At the time of the verdict, four of the accused were in custody, while the remaining four had been released on bail. The court reached its decision after recording witness testimonies and hearing final arguments.
The case gained nationwide prominence when Umme Rubab staged a dramatic protest by climbing onto the vehicle of then Chief Justice Saqib Nisar to demand justice. In 2020, a police inquiry led by Pir Muhammad Shah had already cleared Sardar Ahmed Chandio and his brother of involvement, citing a lack of evidence.
Over the years, proceedings were held in multiple courts, including the Anti-Terrorism Courts in Naushahro Feroze, Sukkur, and Mirpur Mathelo, before being transferred to the Sessions Court in Dadu, where the final verdict was delivered.
Reacting to the decision, Umme Rubab told the media that while the ruling came from a state institution, she believed the truth was already known to the public. She asserted that her family had effectively won in the court of public opinion and vowed to challenge the acquittal in higher forums, including the High Court and the Supreme Court.
Given the sensitive nature of the case, strict security measures were implemented across Dadu ahead of the verdict. Senior Superintendent of Police Saddam Hussain Khaskheli confirmed that Section 144 had been imposed, restricting public gatherings of more than five people. Heavy police deployment was seen around the Judicial Complex and key routes, with over 450 personnel assigned to maintain law and order during the proceedings.