Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari on Monday expressed deep sorrow over the death of Pakistan Air Force Group Captain Asim Tariq, who was shot dead after intervening to protect a woman in Islamabad. In separate statements, the prime minister and president praised the officer's courage and sacrifice, describing his actions as an exemplary display of bravery, devotion to duty, and public service.
Prime Minister Lauds Officer's Bravery
PM Shehbaz said Group Captain Asim Tariq laid down his life while protecting the life and honour of a woman, setting 'an unparalleled example of courage, bravery and devotion to duty.' He said the nation would always remember and honour the sacrifices of such brave sons. He also extended his condolences to the captain's family, saying the entire nation stood with them in their grief. PM Shehbaz prayed for the deceased's elevated status in the hereafter and directed the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into the incident, ensuring those responsible were brought to justice in accordance with the law.
President Zardari Also Expresses Grief
President Zardari also expressed profound grief over the officer's death and offered condolences to his family in a post on X. He said sacrificing one's life to protect an innocent woman reflected the highest human values and was a shining example of service to the nation. The president also described the incident on one of Islamabad's main thoroughfares as a matter of serious concern and stressed the need to ensure such crimes are prevented.
Details of the Incident
Group Captain Asim Tariq was fatally shot near Shaheen Chowk on Ninth Avenue after intervening when he allegedly saw a man attempting to force a woman onto a motorcycle on Sunday. Investigators said the woman later told police that the suspect, identified as her colleague, had allegedly diverted from the route to her workplace and tried to take her elsewhere, prompting a struggle. The group captain intervened, enabling the woman to reach safety before he was shot. The suspect then fled the scene, however, police stated that efforts were underway to arrest him.
