Suspect in PAF Officer’s murder sent to jail on 14-day Judicial remand for identification parade

An anti-terrorism court in Islamabad on Monday sent the suspect in the murder of Group Captain Asim Tariq to jail on a 14-day judicial remand to facilitate an identification parade.

An anti-terrorism court in Islamabad on Monday sent the suspect in the murder of Group Captain Asim Tariq to jail on a 14-day judicial remand to facilitate an identification parade. Tariq, a Pakistan Air Force officer, was shot dead a day earlier while trying to rescue a woman near Shaheen Chowk on Ninth Avenue, in the jurisdiction of Margalla Police Station.

According to initial reports, Tariq was passing through the area when he noticed a woman who had dismounted a motorcycle while the rider was allegedly pulling her by the hand. The officer turned back and stopped near the motorcycle, prompting the woman to run to the other side of his vehicle. During the confrontation, the alleged suspect exchanged harsh words with the officer before opening fire on him. Tariq later succumbed to his injuries, while the suspect fled the scene.

Sources said the woman stated that the suspect was helping a colleague who had offered to take her to work but allegedly changed the route and attempted to take her elsewhere, leading to a struggle. Tariq intervened in time and ensured her safety before being shot.

The suspect, whose face was covered, was produced before ATC Judge Abu Al-Hasanat Zulqarnain. Special Public Prosecutor Raja Naveed Hussain and Investigation Officer Akhtar Hussain informed the court that two eyewitnesses were available and that an identification process was required. The court observed that the suspect had been arrested a day earlier and faced serious charges involving the killing of an armed forces officer. It directed jail authorities not to allow any change in the suspect’s face, appearance, or physical features until the identification parade was completed.

The court ordered the suspect to be produced again on July 20. The incident has drawn widespread condemnation, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari paying tribute to the officer’s bravery and sacrifice. Tariq’s heroic actions, which saved the woman from potential harm, have been hailed as a testament to the courage and selflessness of Pakistan’s armed forces. The investigation continues as authorities work to ensure justice for the fallen officer and his family.