In a heartbreaking turn of events, three suspects have been arrested in connection with the ruthless murder of two transgender individuals in Mardan district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This brutal crime adds to the mounting toll of violence, marking the 10th such killing in the transgender community in this region this year alone.
According to the first report filed on October 21 at Mardan City Police Station, three unidentified attackers stormed the home of transgender persons, wielding sharp-edged weapons and unleashing a horrifying assault. Tragically, Sabir, also known as Nazka, and Salman, known as Salmanu, lost their lives in this vicious attack. Arshad, or Shawki, managed to survive by hiding in the bathroom, haunted by the trauma of the assault.
The gruesome incident took place in an upper-story house near Mardan’s Police Lines area. Anmol Rani, a representative of the transgender community, shared the terrifying details. She explained that one of the attackers initially entered under the guise of a client, requesting a musical show. Once inside, he signaled for his accomplices, who then launched a savage assault with sword-like weapons. Other occupants barely managed to save their lives by hiding.
Following this tragedy, Mardan police swiftly mobilized. Under the guidance of District Police Officer Zahoor Babar Afridi, a special team used advanced forensic tools and human intelligence to identify and arrest the accused: Ziauddin, Muhammad Rehman, and Adnan Khan. The recovered weapon and motorcycle link them unmistakably to the crime. DPO Afridi commended his team’s quick action, emphasizing the importance of rapid justice to protect the community. The suspects now face full legal proceedings, and the investigation continues.
Arzoo Khan, leader of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s transgender community, expressed deep sorrow over this double homicide, which painfully underscores the vulnerability of transgender individuals in the region. Since 2015, at least 140 transgender persons have been violently killed here. “This tragedy is yet another senseless act of brutality that reflects the intense suffering and isolation our community endures,” Arzoo shared. She called on authorities to ensure that these heinous crimes do not go unpunished, urging society to recognize the transgender community’s inherent humanity and citizenship.
As the Executive Director of the Manzil Foundation, Arzoo has been relentless in her fight for justice. Her foundation has launched a Vigilance Violence Group, aiming to raise awareness and confront the unending violence against transgender individuals. Following a meeting with senior police officials, activists, and community members are advocating for Tahafuz Centers in Peshawar, safe havens that would offer security and support for transgender people.
This is a time to grieve, to reflect, and most importantly, to act. The cries for justice from the transgender community in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa must be met with more than condolences—they deserve the promise of safety and dignity.