Shahid Afridi Mediated Slain Lawyer Case, Cop Claims Innocence

Download IPFS

A police officer accused in the murder of lawyer Khawaja Shamsul Islam claims former cricketer Shahid Afridi mediated between the parties, alleging the case stems from personal enmity.

On August 4, 2025, Taqdeer Azam Afridi, a police officer implicated in the murder of prominent Karachi lawyer Khawaja Shamsul Islam, released a video statement proclaiming his innocence and asserting that the case against him is baseless, rooted in personal vendettas. Taqdeer claimed that former Pakistan cricket captain Shahid Afridi attempted to mediate between him and the slain lawyer to resolve their dispute prior to the killing, as reported by The Express Tribune. The officer stated that the accusations are a result of longstanding personal enmity and urged authorities to investigate thoroughly, per Geo News.

The murder of Khawaja Shamsul Islam, a senior lawyer known for handling high-value property cases, occurred on July 31, 2025, in Karachi’s DHA Phase 6. The assailant, identified as Imran Khan Afridi, a former gunman for Islam, allegedly shot him during a funeral, also injuring Islam’s son, according to Daily Times. The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) placed Imran on the Provisional National Identification List (PNIL) to prevent his escape, with Deputy Inspector General (DIG) South Karachi Syed Asad Raza leading the manhunt, per Geo News. Taqdeer’s video, circulated on social media, claims Imran’s actions were driven by a family feud, not a coordinated conspiracy involving him.

Taqdeer further alleged that Shahid Afridi, a prominent figure known for his community influence, facilitated talks to de-escalate tensions between the parties, though these efforts failed. Karachi police, in a statement to Dawn, confirmed they are investigating Taqdeer’s claims but have not verified Afridi’s mediation role. The Karachi Bar Association condemned the killing, announcing a court boycott and demanding swift justice, per Pakistan Today. Legal circles expressed outrage, noting Islam’s survival of a prior attack in November 2024, which raised concerns about security for lawyers, according to The Nation.

The case has intensified scrutiny on Karachi’s law and order, with police recovering two bullet casings and one live round for forensic analysis, as reported by Geo News. Authorities are probing whether personal disputes, as Taqdeer claims, or broader motives drove the murder, with the FIA and police vowing to apprehend all involved.