Pakistani Boy aged 7 found dead in Water Tank

Police have arrested two suspects in connection with the tragic death of a seven-year-old boy named Sarim.

His body was discovered in an underground water tank on January 18, 2025.

Sarim, who had been missing since January 7, was a student at Madrasah Al Quran in Karachi.

The boy had been reported missing after he failed to return home.

His father, Parvez, discovered Sarim’s gloves on the stairs of the mosque but found no other clues.

His disappearance sparked extensive search efforts by the police and his family.

Sarim’s disappearance initially led his family to suspect a kidnapping, as they reported receiving ransom demands from an international number.

However, further investigation revealed the calls were part of a scam by a known fraudster.

The discovery of his body was made at Anam Apartments when a foul smell emanating from the water tank was noticed.

The police had previously searched the tank, but its high water level at the time prevented any findings.

However, due to a water shortage in the area, the tank’s level had dropped, revealing Sarim’s body.

Authorities launched an investigation to find whether the boy’s death was accidental or the result of foul play.

Police Surgeon Dr Summaiya Syed, who conducted the post-mortem, confirmed multiple injuries on the boy’s body, particularly around the neck.

This raised suspicions of a possible murder.

Authorities have stated that the suspects in custody had access to a locked flat within the complex.

Additional evidence, including a blanket, was found there.

DNA samples from the suspects and Sarim are being analysed to establish any connections.

The community has questioned how Sarim’s body went unnoticed during earlier searches, which included the water tank.

Residents speculate foul play, pointing out inconsistencies in the timeline and discovery.

The incident has left local residents in shock. They criticised both law enforcement and the apartment union for negligence.

A video showed grieving family members and residents confronting local representatives.

MPA Abdul Waseem from the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) was accused of exploiting the tragedy for political purposes.

In response, Waseem acknowledged the family’s grief and called for a thorough investigation to uncover the truth.

This case has highlighted concerns about child safety in Pakistan’s residential complexes.

It has also brought attention to the inefficiencies of investigative procedures, as the police failed to locate Sarim despite repeated checks of the premises.

Authorities are continuing their investigations, with samples and evidence being analysed to determine the exact circumstances of Sarim’s tragic death.