A tragic incident has shaken Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as renowned religious scholar and former JUI-F MPA Muhammad Idrees was shot dead in a targeted attack in Charsadda. According to police reports, the attack took place in the Utmanzai area when he was traveling from his home to his madrassa early in the morning.
Unidentified attackers riding motorcycles ambushed his vehicle and opened indiscriminate fire, leaving him critically injured. He was being rushed to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries on the way. Two police personnel assigned to his security were also seriously injured and later shifted to Peshawar for medical treatment.
Authorities confirmed that the attackers had been following the cleric’s vehicle before carrying out the planned assault. Around nine bullet casings were recovered from the scene, and investigators collected CCTV footage along with other forensic evidence. Police teams, including the Counter Terrorism Department, have launched a full investigation and are conducting raids to arrest the suspects.
The killing has drawn strong reactions from national leaders. The President and Prime Minister condemned the attack, expressing deep sorrow and extending condolences to the bereaved family. They reiterated their commitment to eliminate terrorism and ensure justice.
Meanwhile, JUI-F leadership has criticized the provincial government, holding it responsible for failing to maintain law and order. Senior leader Maulana Ataur Rehman questioned the increasing number of attacks on religious scholars, warning that such incidents are becoming unacceptable. He also announced province-wide protests against the deteriorating security situation.
This incident highlights the growing concern over targeted killings in the region. Similar attacks in recent years have claimed the lives of religious and political figures, raising serious questions about public safety. Authorities now face mounting pressure to take immediate action and restore security in the province.
