A special investigation team has been formed by Karachi police to probe the mysterious death of Pakistani actor and visual artist Humaira Asghar Ali, whose decomposed body was found in her apartment earlier this week.
The discovery has sent shockwaves across Pakistan’s entertainment industry, especially given the tragic circumstances and unanswered questions surrounding her death.
According to police sources, Humaira’s body was found in an advanced state of decomposition, believed to be at least eight months old, in her flat in the Defence area of Karachi. Police surgeon Dr. Summaiya Syed confirmed the time frame, adding that due to the level of decomposition, the cause of death could not be determined through autopsy.
In a notification dated July 11, South Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Mahzoor Ali announced the formation of a special investigation team to conduct a comprehensive probe. The team is headed by Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Imran Ali Jagrani of Clifton Division and led operationally by Defence Sub-Divisional Police Officer Aurangzaib Khattak. Additional members include South ASP Nida Junaid, SHO Muhammad Farooq, Sub-Inspector Muhammad Amjad, and IT Branch Constable Muhammad Adeel.
The officers have been tasked with investigating whether Humaira’s death was natural, accidental, suicidal, or a possible homicide. They are expected to submit progress reports daily to the SSP’s office.
Police initially faced criticism when it was reported that Humaira’s family refused to claim her body. However, the actor’s brother, Naveed Asghar, addressed the media after arriving in Karachi to collect her remains and clarified that the family had been in contact with both police and the Chhipa Welfare Association.
“The body was in police custody for investigation. We followed all guidelines. It’s unfortunate how the media portrayed us,” Naveed said. He confirmed that the body was transported to Lahore and that Humaira was laid to rest in the Model Town Q Block graveyard on Friday.
Humaira Asghar Ali was a respected name in Pakistan’s arts and performance circles. A graduate of Punjab University’s Fine Arts Department, she specialized in painting and was also involved in socially conscious theatre. During her university years, she worked with the student theatre group Natak and came into contact with prominent figures like Qavi Khan and Amjad Islam Amjad.
She appeared in several Pakistan Television (PTV) dramas and was known for her dedication to community-driven and meaningful art.
The sudden and mysterious circumstances of her death have raised serious questions, especially considering her long absence and the delay in finding her body.
Authorities have not ruled out foul play and continue to investigate all angles, including the possibility that those close to her may have had knowledge of her fate.
For now, the entertainment community mourns the loss of a passionate artist, while the public waits for answers in what is shaping up to be one of the most troubling showbiz tragedies in recent memory.
