Senior Advocate Abdul Razzaq Shar, a highly respected figure within the Supreme Court of Pakistan, tragically lost his life in a drive-by shooting incident on Quetta’s Airport Road this Tuesday, as confirmed by local authorities.
Shar was en route to the Balochistan High Court (BHC) when unknown assailants riding three motorcycles launched their fatal attack. Gul Muhammad, the Station House Officer (SHO) from Jamil Shaheed, confirmed that Shar was traveling in a relative’s car when the incident occurred.
Despite being swiftly transported to Quetta Civil Hospital, Shar’s injuries were too severe, and he sadly passed away en route.
Police reported that Shar had been hit by 16 bullets during the attack, primarily in his chest, neck, and stomach regions, which resulted in his demise. No post-mortem was carried out, as per his family’s request.
Local law enforcement quickly established a perimeter around the crime scene to begin their investigation and are currently striving to bring the culprits to justice.
Quetta Bar Association President Abid Kakar announced a complete court boycott and three days of mourning to honor Shar’s memory. Shar’s colleague, Mir Ataullah Lango, revealed that Shar had recently raised concerns about threats to his life, having petitioned the court for protection, which he never received.
Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) Ataullah Tarar controversially attributed responsibility for Shar’s murder to PTI Chairman Imran Khan.
Tarar claimed that Shar’s death was connected to a treason case against Khan, which was due for a conclusion soon. Shar had argued that Khan had breached the Constitution by advising the president to dissolve the National Assembly, a charge, if proven, punishable under Article 6.
Tarar went further, promising a comprehensive investigation into the lawyer’s murder and vowing to nominate Imran Khan as a suspect. He also urged the Balochistan government and relevant law enforcement agencies to ensure a thorough investigation into this grave crime.