ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court of Pakistan has issued its detailed verdict in the Noor Mukadam murder case, affirming the death sentence of convict Zahir Jaffer. In the 13-page judgment, the apex court described Jaffer as a “ruthless killer” undeserving of sympathy.
The court upheld the decisions of both the trial and high courts, confirming the consistency and legality of their rulings. A significant aspect of the verdict relied on the "Silent Witness Theory," a legal principle that accepts video evidence as valid even without a human eyewitness.
The court emphasized that reliable digital evidence, including CCTV footage, DVRs, and hard drives, is admissible and can serve as primary testimony. It cited a past bank robbery case as precedent and noted that American courts also recognize this principle.
In Jaffer’s case, the court confirmed that the CCTV footage was untampered, the accused was properly identified, and DNA reports verified the rape. The murder weapon also carried the victim’s blood. Jaffer failed to provide a plausible explanation for Noor’s presence at his residence.
While maintaining Jaffer’s death sentence for murder, the court reduced his rape sentence to life imprisonment and acquitted him of abduction. His sentence for unlawful confinement remains.
Co-accused Muhammad Iftikhar and Muhammad Jan’s sentences were upheld, though they were released for time served.
Justice Ali Baqar Najafi is expected to add a supplementary note to the judgment. Noor Mukadam, 27, was murdered on July 20, 2021, in Islamabad.
