National ( The cow news digital ) Charsadda: A prominent religious scholar and former provincial lawmaker, Maulana Mohammad Idris Tarangzai, was shot dead in a targeted attack on Tuesday in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Charsadda district, officials confirmed.
According to police sources, the incident occurred in the Utmanzai area when Maulana Idris was on his way to deliver a Hadith lecture at a local seminary. Unknown assailants opened fire on his vehicle, critically injuring him. Two police personnel accompanying him were also wounded in the attack.
Rescue teams rushed the injured to the District Headquarters Hospital; however, Maulana Idris succumbed to his injuries on the way. His body was later shifted to the hospital, where a large number of followers and locals gathered upon hearing the news.
Police officials stated that the attackers managed to flee the scene immediately after the shooting. A search operation has been launched in the surrounding areas, and authorities say efforts are underway to identify and apprehend those responsible. The Inspector General of Police has issued directives for the swift arrest of the suspects and a detailed investigation into the incident.
Maulana Mohammad Idris was regarded as a respected religious figure with a significant following. He had dedicated his life to religious education and preaching, earning recognition among scholars across the region.
His funeral prayers are scheduled to be held later اليوم in his native village of Tarangzai in Charsadda, where thousands are expected to attend.
Political and religious leaders have strongly condemned the attack. Governor Faisal Karim Kundi expressed deep sorrow over the killing, calling it an irreparable loss to the country. He emphasized that individuals devoted to peace and religious harmony are often targeted by extremist elements, adding that the perpetrators would be brought to justice.
Chief Minister Suhail Afridi also termed the incident tragic and assured full support to the bereaved family. Meanwhile, former Jamaat-e-Islami chief Siraj-ul-Haq criticized the deteriorating law and order situation in the province, urging authorities to ensure the protection of citizens’ lives and property.
The incident has once again raised concerns about security challenges in the region, particularly for religious figures.
