Humaira Asghar’s death: What does the forensic report reveal?

Dubai: The prolonged mystery surrounding the death of Pakistani actor and model Humaira Asghar Ali appears to be nearing closure, as a comprehensive forensic report has found no traces of sedatives, toxins, or foul substances in her system.

Authorities now believe the 32-year-old may have died of natural or accidental causes, ruling out earlier speculation of suicide or homicide.

The chemical examination, conducted by the International Centre for Chemical and Biological Sciences at the University of Karachi, analysed samples of Humaira’s hair, liver, lungs, and other organs using advanced gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) technology. The results, made public after the foresenic report, confirmed the absence of any intoxicants, narcotics, or poisons, according to both the lab report and police officials.

“There are no indications of foul play or suicide so far,” stated Karachi South DIG Syed Asad Raza, in a report submitted to the court.

Humaira’s badly decomposed body was discovered on July 8 inside her Defence Housing Authority (DHA) apartment, which had been double-locked from the inside, with no signs of forced entry. Her death came to light only after a court-appointed bailiff visited to execute an eviction order due to unpaid rent.

An autopsy by Dr. Summaiya Syed, police surgeon at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC), determined that the body had been decomposing for at least eight months, placing the likely time of death around October 2024, according to reports in Pakistani media.

A web of silence and solitude

Earlier in the month, Karachi police formed a special investigative team to probe the circumstances of her death. The inquiry was prompted by a petition filed by Shahzaib Sohail, who had urged the court to direct police to register a murder FIR. However, the case quickly took a different shape.

Mobile forensics

Mobile forensics revealed that Humaira had made 14 unanswered calls and messages shortly before her death, including one to a well-known drama director. Despite the outreach, no one responded.

Investigators found no surveillance footage from the building, and the apartment was in a state of disrepair, suggesting she had died alone and remained undiscovered for months.

Meanwhile, her mobile phones, tablet, and laptop were sent to the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) for digital forensic analysis. Police have requested an expedited report.

Bank accounts

Authorities also located two personal bank accounts, one of which contained over Rs390,000. Detailed statements from both banks have been sought to rule out any financial foul play or coercion.

DNA report

A DNA report from the Sindh Forensic DNA and Serology Laboratory (SFDL) confirmed the presence of minor blood stains on Humaira’s clothes, likely caused by insect bites, according to the DIG. There were no signs of struggle, assault, or injuries.

“The apartment was locked from the inside, and all the keys were recovered from the scene,” said a senior officer. “There is no evidence to suggest forced entry, physical violence, or suicide.”

A vibrant life

Humaira, 32, began her career in the arts as a student at Punjab University’s Fine Arts Department, where she studied painting and actively participated in theatre. She was involved with Natak, a university-based theatre group, and worked with acclaimed mentors like Amjad Islam Amjad and Qavi Khan during her formative years.

She appeared in several PTV plays and earned respect for her performances in socially conscious theatre. Later, she transitioned into the digital world, becoming a social media influencer with thousands of followers on TikTok and Instagram.

Despite her public presence, Humaira had grown increasingly isolated in recent years. She had reportedly lived alone in the same DHA apartment for over seven years, and her disappearance went unnoticed by neighbours, friends, and family until her body was discovered.

Police said they are awaiting the final cause of death determination from medico-legal officers and doctors, expected early next week. Once received, the final report will be submitted to the court, which has asked police to continue providing daily updates.