Suspect Arrested in Former VDC Member's Murder in Swat: Financial Dispute Revealed as Motive

In a significant development following the targeted killing of former Village Defense Committee (VDC) member Muftah ud Din in Swat's Kanju area, local police have arrested the prime suspect, Muhammad Badshah. The arrest, made on November 6, 2025, uncovers a financial dispute as the underlying motive, shifting initial suspicions away from militancy links. The murder weapon, a 9mm pistol, was recovered based on the suspect's confession. This case highlights ongoing local tensions in Swat Valley, where personal conflicts can escalate amid a backdrop of historical security challenges, while emphasizing the role of swift investigations in restoring community confidence.

Incident Recap and Arrest Details

The incident occurred on November 4, 2025, near Shaheed Baba Government Primary School in Kanju Bazaar, Tehsil Kabal, Swat District. Unidentified assailants fired at Muftah ud Din, son of Sarfaraz Khan from Teli Abad Kanju, killing him on the spot before fleeing. The attack initially sparked fears of terrorism-related reprisals given the victim's past role in anti-militancy efforts.

Following the murder, Swat Police and the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) responded immediately, collecting evidence and registering a case at CTD Kabal Police Station. Utilizing CCTV footage, technical analysis, and intelligence sources, authorities detained several suspects for interrogation. During questioning, Muhammad Badshah, son of Bahri Bostan and a resident of Theli Abad Kanju, confessed to the crime.

According to the confession, the motive stemmed from a financial transaction dating back 1.5 years. The victim had allegedly taken responsibility for paying 186,000 rupees for chickens purchased from dealer Anwar Khan at the Mingora Bypass Road poultry market but repeatedly delayed payment despite demands. On the day of the incident, the suspect and victim were together at a shop in Kanju Bazaar before heading toward the victim's home. At the school site, Muhammad Badshah fired the pistol, leading to Muftah ud Din's immediate death.

Police Recovery and Actions

On the suspect's lead, police recovered the 9mm pistol used in the crime. The arrest has alleviated some local fears that had spread after the killing, with residents noting a sense of relief amid prior concerns of militancy involvement. Investigations continue to rule out any additional accomplices or broader connections, though the financial motive appears primary at this stage.

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