A well-known cleric, Sheikh-ul-Hadith Maulana Muhammad Idrees, was killed in a targeted shooting in Pakistan‘s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Tuesday, according to police reports. The incident occurred in the Utmanzai area of Charsadda district when unidentified gunmen ambushed his vehicle. Two security guards accompanying the cleric sustained injuries during the attack.
Maulana Muhammad Idrees was highly regarded among religious scholars in Pakistan, recognized for his significant contributions to religious education. His assassination has triggered widespread condemnation and protests throughout the region. Information reaching TahirRihat.com suggests that authorities have launched an investigation to apprehend those responsible for the cleric’s death.
Initial reports indicate that the assailants opened fire on Maulana Idrees as he was en route to deliver a religious lecture, a Dars-e-Hadith, at Darul Uloom Utmanzai. He suffered critical injuries and was rushed to the District Headquarters Hospital, where he succumbed to his wounds. His body was subsequently transported to his native village, Turangzai, also located in the Charsadda district. A large gathering of followers assembled at the hospital upon hearing the news of his death.
The assassination sparked immediate protests, with hundreds of demonstrators marching towards Charsadda city, demanding the swift arrest of the perpetrators. The protesters also organized a sit-in at Farooq-e-Azam Chowk, expressing their outrage and grief over the incident. The demonstration underscores the deep impact of Maulana Idrees’s death on the local community and the demand for justice.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Inspector General of Police (IGP) Zulfiqar Hameed has taken notice of the incident and sought a comprehensive report from the Regional Police Officer in Mardan. The IGP has directed law enforcement to prioritize the immediate apprehension of those involved in the attack. According to the IGP’s statement, the services of Idrees were “unforgettable” and those involved in the “heinous act” would be brought to justice.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has also condemned the assassination and requested a detailed report from police authorities, expressing his deep sorrow and assuring support for the bereaved family in this difficult time. (PTI) reported that Chief Minister Afridi also directed authorities to ensure the best possible medical care for the injured security personnel. The government’s response reflects the gravity of the situation and the commitment to addressing the concerns of the community.
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the attack, including examining potential motives and leads. The investigation aims to bring the culprits to justice and prevent further acts of violence. The authorities are also working to ensure the safety and security of religious leaders and institutions within the province.
The assassination of Maulana Muhammad Idrees comes at a sensitive time, raising concerns about security and stability in the region. Law enforcement agencies are intensifying their efforts to maintain law and order and prevent any escalation of tensions. The local community and religious organizations are urged to remain calm and cooperate with the authorities in the investigation.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.