Shahzad Akbar, a former advisor to ex-Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, was the victim of an acid attack at his home in the United Kingdom on Sunday.
Hertfordshire police confirmed the incident in Royston, about 50 miles from London. Akbar, who now resides there with his family, received hospital treatment for his injuries and has been discharged. The police believe this to be an isolated incident and are conducting active inquiries, urging witnesses or those with information to come forward.
Akbar had previously contacted UK law enforcement, expressing concerns for his safety after his new address became known to the Pakistani government. This came following a letter from Pakistan’s Cabinet Division inquiring about his involvement in legal cases, including the £190 million NCA properties settlement and the Al-Qadir Trust case involving Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi.
The Pakistani government source insisted that serving papers to an accused’s known address is a legal requirement, accusing Akbar of withholding crucial documents in a corruption case. Akbar, however, denies these claims.
The assault occurred on Sunday evening when an unidentified individual, posing as a delivery person, attacked Akbar with acid as he opened his front door. Although most of the acid hit the door, Akbar sustained injuries on his hand, with minor burns to his face and arm. He recounted that his spectacles prevented more severe damage to his eyesight. Akbar’s family, present at the time, remained unharmed. He reported the incident to the police, who responded promptly. He spent several hours in the hospital before returning home.
