In a horrifying incident that took place on August 21 in the Raiwind area near Lahore, two brothers were viciously beaten over a trivial Rs30 dispute while trying to purchase fruit. One died on the spot, and the other succumbed to his injuries shortly after. Shocking video footage of the assault ignited public outrage, prompting swift action by authorities.
Details of the Incident
The brothers, Wajid and Rashid—both in their twenties and traveling home from Kot Radha Kishan—stopped near Rohi Nala to buy bananas. A fight erupted when the fruit seller claimed he couldn’t make change for a large note. The brothers requested fewer bananas instead, which led to an altercation.
A group of men joined the conflict after being called over. A harrowing video captured Wajid lying on the ground, while Rashid knelt over him in a pool of blood—only to be struck with a cricket bat. Wajid died immediately; Rashid later died in hospital on Sunday from his injuries.
Arrests and FIR Filing
The victim’s father filed an FIR on August 22 at Raiwind City Police Station under Sections 147, 149, and 302 of the Pakistan Penal Code, signalling charges of rioting, unlawful assembly, and murder. The main suspect was swiftly arrested and handed over to the Crime Control Department (CCD), with additional arrests quickly following. At least three of the six identified suspects have now been detained.
Police Encounter Leaves Two Dead
Authorities confirmed that two of the arrested suspects named Owais and Shahzad were killed in an alleged “encounter” during a CCD-led operation. According to police accounts, accomplices launched an attack on officers to free the suspects during a raid, triggering a gunfight in which Owais and Shahzad were shot dead.
Despite their deaths, law enforcement stress that their operation was in response to an active threat. The search continues for the other suspects, including one identified as Tauqeer who led the rescue attempt.
Public Reaction and Legal Implications
The viral video and brutal nature of the crime sparked widespread condemnation. Villagers and onlookers accused the attackers of brutality—and accused bystanders of failing to intervene. The victims’ families and communities are demanding that the case be overseen by the newly formed Counter Crime Department instead of local authorities. Calls for justice are swelling, with citizens seeking accountability for both the crime and the police response.
