The postmortem examination of 45-year-old Hina Javed, whose body was found with her hands tied and a noose around her neck inside a washroom in Lal Kurti, Rawalpindi, has revealed multiple injuries, including a fractured neck.
However, doctors were unable to conclusively determine the cause of death during the initial autopsy. Samples collected from the deceased have been sent to a forensic laboratory for further analysis as police investigate the circumstances surrounding her death.
According to the postmortem report, the body also showed injury marks on the ribs and hip bone. The report further noted that blood had accumulated in the heart and lungs following respiratory arrest.
The postmortem examination was conducted by Dr. Maria Khalid approximately 12 hours after Hina’s death.
Cause of death remains unclear
Despite documenting several injuries, the initial postmortem report did not establish the exact cause of Hina Javed’s death.
Forensic samples have therefore been forwarded to a laboratory for detailed examination. Investigators are expected to rely on the laboratory findings, along with the postmortem evidence and other material collected during the investigation, to determine the cause and manner of death.
The forensic report could also help police establish whether the injuries were sustained before or during the incident and clarify the circumstances in which the woman died.
Police initially reported hanging
According to the initial police information provided to the doctor, Hina Javed had allegedly been hanged by her husband.
However, the discovery of her body with her hands tied and the injuries documented during the postmortem have raised questions about the circumstances of her death. Police are now examining the case from multiple angles while awaiting the forensic findings.
The postmortem report and collected samples were received by Lady Constable Rafia Tabassum.
Husband and domestic worker arrested
A murder case has been registered at Civil Lines Police Station, Rawalpindi, on the complaint of Hina Javed’s brother, Fahad Javed.
Police have arrested the victim’s husband and a domestic worker in connection with the case. Both suspects have been placed on three-day physical remand as investigators continue questioning them and examining the available evidence.
The arrests were made as police investigate whether the circumstances surrounding Hina Javed’s death are consistent with the initial report of hanging.
Forensic findings could determine next steps
Investigators are now awaiting the forensic laboratory report, which is expected to provide further information about the precise cause and manner of Hina Javed’s death.
Police are continuing to collect evidence and question the suspects while the forensic examination is underway. The final determination will depend on the forensic findings and the broader evidence gathered during the investigation.
