Police in Karachi have arrested the brother of a woman who, along with her husband, was shot dead on Monday after the couple appeared in court in connection with their love marriage, officials said on Tuesday.

According to police, the main suspect, identified as Sajid, was arrested from the jurisdiction of Sachal police station and has confessed to killing his sister Nadia and her husband Najeeullah in the name of “honour”.

Aaj News also obtained the suspect’s confessional statement.*

During interrogation, Sajid told investigators that his sister’s engagement had earlier been arranged in exchange for Rs350,000.

He claimed that after Nadia contracted a love marriage, her former fiancé began demanding the return of the money.

The suspect told police that when the amount could not be repaid, a condition was allegedly imposed that Nadia be killed. Sajid said he carried out the murders under pressure.

Police said two other suspects remain at large, including Amjad, who allegedly drove the motorcycle used during the attack, and Nadia’s former fiancé.

A case has been registered, and further investigations are underway.

The couple was shot dead on Monday in Karachi’s Malir area shortly after appearing before a court in a case linked to their marriage.

According to police, armed assailants opened indiscriminate fire on the couple’s vehicle near the NADRA passport office close to RCD Ground in Malir. Both victims died at the scene.

Investigators identified the deceased as Nadia and Najeeullah, saying the two had married of their own choice some time ago.

Police said Nadia’s father had earlier lodged a kidnapping case at Sachal police station on May 19, alleging that his daughter had been abducted.

Sources said the couple appeared before a court on the day of the attack 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.

Officials said the attack took place while the couple was returning from the court hearing.

Law enforcement personnel later reached the scene, collected evidence and launched an investigation into the killings.