KARACHI, September 20, 2026 — Five members of a family, including a doctor, his wife and their three children, were found dead inside their flat in Karachi’s Ahsanabad area on Sunday, according to police.
The deceased doctor was identified as Dr Umar. Police said the bodies appeared to have been inside the locked apartment for around four to five days before they were discovered.
Bodies Found After Neighbours Report Foul Smell
The incident came to light after residents noticed a strong smell coming from the family’s apartment. Police arrived at the building and broke open the door, which was locked from the inside.
Investigators found Dr Umar and his wife in one room, while their three children were found in another. Police said there were no immediate signs of a struggle, robbery or forced entry inside the flat.
Because of the condition of the bodies, police said they had already begun to decompose.
Police Investigate Possible Poisoning
Police are investigating whether the family may have died after consuming a poisonous substance. Investigators have also raised the possibility of a collective suicide, but officials stressed that the exact cause of death has not yet been established.
The bodies were transferred to a hospital for post-mortem examinations. Doctors are awaiting the results of chemical testing before determining the final cause of death.
Doctor Had Reportedly Been Diagnosed With Cancer
According to information gathered from neighbours, Dr Umar and his family were known in the area and reportedly had good relationships with local residents.
Police said Dr Umar had been ill for some time and had reportedly been diagnosed with cancer. Following his diagnosis, he left his hospital job and was reportedly planning to move to Bahawalpur.
Police also said Dr Umar’s wife had reportedly tried to sell an oven for Rs10,000 the previous week. A neighbour did not purchase it but instead provided her with Rs2,000 in financial assistance. Investigators are examining such details as part of the inquiry.
Authorities Order Investigation
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah expressed grief over the deaths and sought a report from the Inspector General of Police.
Sindh Home Minister Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjar also requested details from the SSP East and instructed police to conduct a coordinated investigation. Officials said investigators would examine witness statements, circumstances at the scene and other available evidence to establish what happened.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have yet to establish the confirmed cause and circumstances of the five deaths.
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