CCTV footage reveals suspect’s movements after PAF officer’s killing in Islamabad

ISLAMABAD: Latest developments have emerged in the investigation into the killing of Pakistan Air Force (PAF) Group Captain Asim Tariq, with police releasing CCTV footage of the suspect following his arrest.

According to police, the footage shows the suspect, identified as 20-year-old Saad Abbasi, leaving for Lahore from the Faizabad bus terminal after the shooting. Additional CCTV footage also shows him riding a motorcycle with the woman involved in the incident. The suspect also headed to a shop to change his clothes.

Police said the suspect is a resident of Band Khanna Road in the Khanna police station limits of Islamabad. He has completed matriculation and had previously worked as a salesman at an electronics shop.

Investigators said the incident began when the suspect allegedly attempted to force a woman to accompany him. She refused, leading to a physical altercation between the two.

According to police, Group Captain Asim Tariq stopped after noticing the scuffle and intervened to prevent the suspect from allegedly forcing the woman to go with him. The suspect reportedly became enraged, opened fire on the officer while he was inside his vehicle and fled the scene. Group Captain Asim Tariq later succumbed to his injuries.

Police said senior officers, including the SP City, reached the site immediately after being informed of the incident. A search operation launched under the supervision of the SP City led to the suspect’s arrest.

President Zardari, PM Sharif offer condolences

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari paid tribute to Group Captain Tariq after the PAF officer was fatally shot. The prime minister described the officer’s actions as an example of courage, bravery and devotion to duty, saying the nation would always honour such sacrifices. He extended condolences to the bereaved family and directed authorities to conduct a transparent investigation and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.

President Zardari also expressed grief over the officer’s death, calling his sacrifice a shining example of national service and courage. He voiced concern over the incident taking place on one of Islamabad’s major roads and stressed the need for stronger measures to prevent similar crimes.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Sunday had sought a report on the incident and directed police to swiftly arrest the suspect and ensure justice for the slain officer. Group Captain Asim Tariq is survived by his widow, a daughter and a son.