The investigation into the death of Mir Raza Ali has taken a new turn after his smartwatch and mobile phone were handed over to the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) for further examination.

The devices are considered potentially important evidence as investigators continue probing the circumstances surrounding Raza’s death. His body was recovered from Gulistan-e-Johar in Karachi.

Jibran Nasir, the lawyer representing Raza’s family, confirmed that both digital devices had been submitted to the NCCIA.

According to Nasir, members of Raza’s family also met NCCIA officials and requested that the devices undergo forensic examination by the Punjab Forensic Science Agency (PFSA). The family believes a detailed analysis could help investigators establish important facts about the case.

The development follows concerns previously raised by Nasir regarding the handling of Raza’s smartwatch. He had claimed that police requested the device on the day of Raza’s Soyem, the religious ceremony held on the third day after his death.

Nasir further alleged that SSP Soomro kept the smartwatch in his possession for eight days, calling it a significant piece of evidence that required proper investigation.

Meanwhile, Dr Usama, who conducted Raza’s initial post-mortem examination, has been removed from his position and summoned before an inquiry committee.

Sindh Inspector General of Police Javed Alam Odho had earlier acknowledged shortcomings in the investigation. He said lapses had occurred at several levels, including involving a medico-legal officer from the provincial health department.

Odho said authorities were taking steps to address the identified weaknesses and that the inquiry would continue in light of the detailed findings of the medical board.

Police had initially based their investigation on the medico-legal report prepared following the first post-mortem examination.

The forensic examination of the smartwatch and phone could now provide investigators with additional digital evidence and potentially help clarify unanswered questions surrounding Raza’s death.

Authorities have yet to disclose the findings of the latest forensic examination.