CHARSADDA – A prominent religious scholar, former member of the provincial assembly and Sheikh-ul-Hadith, Maulana Muhammad Idrees Tarangzai, was martyred in a targeted firing incident in Charsadda on Tuesday.
The police sources said that the attack took place in the Utmanzai area of Charsadda when unknown assailants opened fire on Maulana Idrees as he was on his way to deliver a Dars-e-Hadith at a local seminary.
Two cops were also injured in the incident, said the local police.
The injured scholar was shifted to the District Headquarters (DHQ) Hospital; however, he succumbed to his injuries on the way. His body was later moved to the hospital, where a large number of followers gathered upon receiving the news.
Police officials said the attackers managed to flee the scene, while investigation teams have obtained images of the suspects through Safe City cameras and launched a search operation. Initial evidence suggests the incident was a case of targeted killing.
Inspector General of Police Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Zulfiqar Hameed, has ordered the immediate arrest of those involved and directed authorities to submit a report.
The funeral prayers of Maulana Idrees will be offered today (May 5) at 5:30pm in his native village, Tarangzai, in Charsadda district.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep sorrow over the incident and extended condolences to the bereaved family, praying for the elevation of the martyr’s ranks and patience for the family. He also prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured police personnel.
Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi and Chief Minister Sohail Afridi strongly condemned the attack and sought a report from senior police officials.
Former Jamaat-e-Islami chief Siraj-ul-Haq also denounced the incident, terming the deteriorating law and order situation in the province a matter of serious concern and urging the government to ensure the protection of citizens’ lives and property.
