A newly married couple was shot dead by unidentified assailants in Karachi’s Malir area on Monday shortly after appearing in court in connection with their love marriage, police said.

According to police, the attack took place near the NADRA passport office close to RCD Ground in Malir, where armed men opened indiscriminate fire on the couple’s car.

Both victims died on the spot.

Police identified the deceased woman as Nadia and the man as Najeeullah. Officials said the couple had married of their own choice some time ago.

Investigators said the woman’s father had registered a kidnapping case against unidentified persons at Sachal police station on May 19, alleging that his daughter had been abducted.

Sources said the couple had appeared before a court earlier in the day and presented their marriage certificate.

After reviewing the documents, the court acquitted the husband in the kidnapping case and granted relief under Section 63 of the Criminal Procedure Code.

Police said the couple came under attack while returning from the court hearing.

Law enforcement teams reached the scene after the shooting, collected evidence and launched an investigation.

Police officials said different aspects of the case were being examined, including the possibility of personal enmity and an honour-related motive linked to the couple’s love marriage.

However, investigators said a final conclusion would only be reached after the completion of the inquiry.