PMLN leader gunned down by ‘drug mafia’ in Islamabad

Islamabad:A local leader of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PMLN), Ishtiaq Abbasi, was allegedly shot dead in broad daylight by suspected drug dealers in the Pandorian area, within the jurisdiction of Khanna Police Station.

Initial reports suggest Abbasi was targeted for his outspoken stance against the rising drug trade in the locality. His murder has sent shockwaves through the community, igniting protests and calls for justice from area residents.

The body was shifted to Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) for post-mortem examination, where a large number of relatives and locals gathered, expressing grief and outrage. The gravity of the situation drew immediate attention from senior officials. Raja Khurram Nawaz, Chairman of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Interior and Member of the National Assembly (MNA), arrived at the hospital to meet the family. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Operations Shoaib Khan also reached the crime scene to oversee the investigation.

While the suspects fled after the attack, MNA Raja Khurram Nawaz contacted the Inspector General (IG) of Islamabad Police, urging the immediate arrest of those responsible. Speaking to the grieving community, IG Islamabad delivered a series of emotional and resolute statements. He referred to Ishtiaq Abbasi as a "martyr" and declared, "I am the complainant in this case. I swear on my late mother’s memory—I will personally seek justice for this martyr." He further added, "Whatever decision the community makes, we will accept it. These people are my elders and brothers."

The IG continued by saying, "If my mother raised me right, you will see it. If legal procedures aren’t followed, change my name. If I fail to deliver justice, I won’t be able to face any mother or child in this area." His remarks underscored the gravity of the case and the mounting pressure on law enforcement to act decisively.

The Islamabad police have launched a full-scale investigation to track down and apprehend the culprits. Meanwhile, community members continue to mourn the loss of a man they considered a courageous voice against the drug menace.

This tragic incident has not only exposed the growing influence of drug mafias in Islamabad’s neighbourhoods but also highlighted the risks faced by those who dare to challenge them. The public now waits to see whether the police’s vows will translate into swift and meaningful justice.