A serving Pakistan Air Force officer, Group Captain Asim Tariq, was shot dead on Sunday afternoon while intervening to protect a woman from an alleged abduction attempt near Shaheen Chowk on Ninth Avenue in the federal capital.
According to police, the incident occurred within the limits of Margalla Police Station, opposite Bahria University and near Air University. Group Captain Asim Tariq, son of Muhammad Tariq, was driving through the area when he witnessed a motorcyclist — identified in reports as Saad, a colleague of the woman — allegedly harassing her and attempting to forcibly put her on his vehicle against her will.
The officer stopped his vehicle and intervened on humanitarian grounds to separate the parties and assist the woman. During the confrontation, the woman reportedly ran to the side of the officer’s car for safety. The armed suspect then argued with Group Captain Asim Tariq before opening fire. A single bullet struck the officer, causing fatal injuries. He succumbed to his wounds at the scene.
The suspect fled immediately in his vehicle. Police teams, led by Additional SHO Siddiq and duty officer Naveed from Margalla Police Station, reached the location promptly, secured the area, and took the affected woman into protective custody. Her statement was recorded, in which she identified the assailant as her workplace colleague who had offered her a ride but then diverted the route and turned aggressive when she resisted.
Official Response and Investigation
The Islamabad Police have registered a case and launched a manhunt, setting up checkpoints and conducting raids in various parts of the city to apprehend the suspect. The investigation remains ongoing.
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi expressed deep sorrow over the incident and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. He sought a detailed report from the Inspector General of Islamabad Police and directed authorities to spare no effort in ensuring the swift arrest of the perpetrator and delivery of justice.
Group Captain Asim Tariq’s body was shifted to a Pakistan Air Force hospital. He is survived by his widow, a son, and a daughter.
Public Reaction
The incident has triggered widespread grief and tributes across social media platforms in Pakistan, with many describing the officer’s actions as an act of supreme sacrifice and hailing him as a national hero who laid down his life while protecting a citizen in distress. The event has also renewed discussions on public safety and the risks faced by individuals who intervene in criminal incidents.
As of Sunday evening, no arrests had been reported, and police continue their search operation. Authorities have urged anyone with information about the suspect or the incident to come forward.
This developing story underscores the challenges of urban crime in the capital and the personal courage demonstrated by citizens, including serving military personnel, in upholding public safety. Further updates are expected as the police investigation progresses.
