CHICHAWATNI (Special Representative) — A horrifying shooting incident triggered by a deep-seated grudge and a petty dispute has claimed the life of a citizen outside a mosque in Chak 36/12-L, within the jurisdiction of the Sadar Chichawatni Police Station. The victim was brutally targeted just as he was exiting the premises after offering his prayers.
District Police Officer (DPO) Sahiwal, Muhammad Usman Tipu, took immediate notice of the incident and ordered the swift apprehension of the suspect. Acting promptly, the police successfully arrested the accused and recovered the weapon used in the crime.
Incident Details and Background
According to preliminary police investigations, the victim, identified as Zafar Iqbal (by caste Rajput), and the suspect, 22-year-old Khubaib, son of Abdul Majeed, were both residents of the same village, Chak 36/12-L. A few days prior, a heated argument had broken out between the two over a minor issue, leading the suspect to harbor a deep resentment.
Today, as Zafar Iqbal stepped out of the mosque after completing his prayers, Khubaib—who was lying in wait—opened indiscriminate fire on him. Zafar Iqbal sustained critical injuries and succumbed to his wounds on the spot before any medical aid could be administered.
Prompt Police Action and Arrest
Upon receiving information about the shooting, a heavy contingent from the Sadar Chichawatni Police Station rushed to the crime scene. Following the strict directives of DPO Sahiwal, police cordoned off the area and established checkpoints, successfully arresting Khubaib as he attempted to go into hiding.
The murder weapon was also recovered from his possession. Police have shifted the deceased’s body to the hospital for a post-mortem examination, and further legal proceedings are underway.
Police Deny Sectarian Angles
To prevent the spread of misinformation, a spokesperson for the Sahiwal Police issued a critical clarifying statement to the media:
“This tragic incident has absolutely no connection to any religious, sectarian, or sub-sectarian conflict (including Shia or Ahle Hadith factions). Both the victim and the suspect belong to the same school of thought (Deoband). The crime was strictly the result of a personal grudge stemming from a verbal dispute a few days ago.”
Police authorities have urged the public and the media to disregard any rumors surrounding the incident, assuring them that the suspect is in custody and will face the full weight of the law.