In Pakistan's Punjab province, a man identified as Sajjad Khokhar has been arrested by police for allegedly murdering his wife and seven minor children. The tragic incident occurred in Alipur, Muzaffargarh district. According to authorities, the accused, who worked as a laborer, was grappling with severe financial difficulties and frequently quarreled with his wife. Mentally disturbed by his dire financial situation, Khokhar purportedly resorted to violence, attacking his wife Kausar (42) and their seven children, four daughters and three sons aged between eight months and 10 years, with an axe, resulting in their tragic deaths.
During interrogation, Khokhar confessed to the crime, stating that he felt compelled to take such drastic measures as he was unable to provide for his children any longer. The devastating incident has prompted a response from state Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, who expressed her sorrow and requested a report from the Inspector General of Police.
This horrific event sheds light on the challenging economic conditions faced by many in Pakistan, a nation currently grappling with a serious financial crisis. Last month, Pakistan reached a staff-level agreement with the IMF on the second and final review of a $3 billion stand-by arrangement, aimed at alleviating some of the economic pressures. If approved by the IMF board, approximately $1.1 billion will be disbursed to support Pakistan's efforts to overcome its financial difficulties.
