Police recover cartridge casing in Mir Raza Ali probe

Karachi police say they have recovered a spent cartridge casing from the scene linked to the killing of Mir Raza Ali, in what investigators describe as an important development in the case.

The recovery was made during a search operation in Gulistan-i-Jauhar, where Ali was found dead near Shahi Qila Ground in July. According to details shared with Dawn by Special Investigation Unit Senior Superintendent of Police Dr Samiullah Soomro, the shell was found during a carefully planned inspection of the area.

Ali, an IBA graduate and owner of the eatery Wafflix, had gone missing on July 28. His body was recovered a day later with a gunshot wound in bushes near the ground. Police have been trying to piece together the events surrounding the killing and say the newly recovered shell may help with forensic work.

Dr Soomro said a special team was assembled for the search, including four station house officers and 40 constables. The area was divided into four sectors, and the team used metal detectors and other equipment to examine the crime scene methodically. Police said the casing was found at a point consistent with the projected bullet trajectory in relation to the position of the deceased.

Investigators believe the evidence could be significant for ballistic analysis and reconstruction of the incident. The recovery may help corroborate other physical evidence already being examined in the case, although police have not publicly shared further conclusions.

The development comes on the same day a Karachi court ordered the exhumation of Ali’s remains for further investigation. The order was issued on an application by his father after a dispute arose between the Karachi police surgeon and investigators over reported gaps in the medico-legal findings from the post-mortem.

The Mir Raza Ali case has drawn attention in Karachi because of the circumstances of his disappearance and death, as well as the ongoing questions around the investigation. Police say the search operation is part of their effort to strengthen the forensic record and build a clearer account of what happened.

For now, investigators are treating the cartridge casing as a key piece of material evidence rather than drawing broader conclusions. As the inquiry continues, the focus remains on forensic testing, scene reconstruction and the post-mortem review ordered by the court.

FAQ

What did police recover in the Mir Raza Ali case?

Police say they recovered a spent cartridge casing from the crime scene in Gulistan-i-Jauhar.

Why is the recovery important?

Investigators say it may help with ballistic analysis and reconstruction of the shooting.

Has the court taken any action in the case?

Yes. A Karachi court ordered the exhumation of Ali’s remains for further investigation.