Suspect apprehended hours following lethal shooting of PAF officer in Islamabad

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Islamabad, Ali Nasir Rizvi, stated that the police apprehended the suspect charged with the murder of Group Captain Asim within nine hours of the event.

During a news conference with DIG Operations Jawad Tariq, Rizvi stated that the unfortunate occurrence transpired at 11:21 AM when Group Captain Asim interfered upon observing a confrontation between a young woman and the suspect.

The IGP stated that Group Captain Asim intervened out of civic duty and compassion, seeking to prevent the suspect from harassing and disputing with the woman.

Nonetheless, the suspect, named Saad Abbasi, purportedly discharged his firearm in a fit of fury, resulting in the fatal shooting of the Pakistan Air Force officer.

Rizvi stated that both the suspect, Saad Abbasi, and the woman, known as Nimra, were employed at a private cash-and-carry establishment in the G-6 sector of Islamabad.

The suspect intended to escort the woman to a park or an alternative venue, but she declined and preferred to confine their engagement to the workplace.

The IGP stated that their acquaintance lasted approximately 10 days through a transportation arrangement, and the woman was unaware of the suspect’s residential address.

Rizvi characterised the incident as a significant challenge for the Islamabad Police, stating that 11 specialised investigation teams were established promptly following the shooting.

He stated that investigators employed Safe City surveillance cameras, artificial intelligence technologies, digital monitoring, and physical intelligence to track the suspect’s attire, motorcycle, and movements.

The police chief stated that following the incident, the suspect acquired a ticket via Skyway, deactivated his cell phone, and altered his attire to avoid apprehension.

Notwithstanding their endeavours, law enforcement located and apprehended him within nine hours after the event.

Rizvi commended Group Captain Asim for exhibiting remarkable patriotism, bravery, and civic duty by attempting to save a woman from purported harassment.

He pledged that law enforcement would investigate the case in compliance with legal standards and guarantee that the defendant, Saad Abbasi, is held accountable.