ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has ordered a transparent investigation into the killing of a Pakistan Air Force (PAF) officer in Islamabad and directed authorities to ensure the suspect faces justice under the law.
Islamabad Police earlier announced the arrest of a suspect accused of fatally shooting PAF Group Captain Asim Tariq on Islamabad’s busy 9th Avenue, near several government offices and the PAF headquarters.
Police spokesman Muhammad Taqi Jawad said Tariq was leaving his office when he saw a man arguing with a woman and stepped in to help. The suspect, identified as Saad Abbasi, allegedly opened fire before fleeing the scene. Tariq later died of his injuries.
“The prime minister directed the relevant authorities to conduct a complete and transparent investigation into the incident and ensure those responsible are brought to justice in accordance with the law,” Sharif’s office said in a statement.
Sharif expressed deep sorrow over the officer’s death. He praised Tariq for showing exceptional courage by trying to protect a woman.
“He set an unparalleled example of bravery and devotion to duty by defending the honor of a woman,” the statement quoted the prime minister as saying. “The entire nation stands with the bereaved family in this time of grief.”
Islamabad Inspector General Ali Nasir Rizvi said the suspect had tried to force the woman to go with him. The woman resisted and repeatedly struck him, prompting Tariq to intervene.
According to police, the suspect and the woman worked at the same departmental store. Abbasi had offered her a ride to work but allegedly attempted to take her elsewhere, triggering an argument.
Police formed 11 teams to trace the suspect. The operation involved digital surveillance, cellular technology, private CCTV footage and the city’s Safe City camera network before officers arrested him.
