Assassination attempt: Ahsan Iqbal shifted to ICU after successful operation

LAHORE: Interior Minister Ahsan Iqbal, who was shot and injured in an assassination attempt during a corner meeting in Narowal on Sunday evening, has been shifted to intensive care unit (ICU) after his successful operation at Services Hospital Lahore.

The minister is now stated to be in stable condition after the surgery. He will be discharged from the hospital in a day or two, according to the medical superintendent of the hospital.

Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi telephoned him to inquire after his health and prayed for his swift recovery.

On Sunday evening, the interior minister narrowly escaped an assassination attempt during a corner meeting in his constituency in Narowal.

Initial reports said he suffered a bullet wound in his right shoulder, but later it was reported that the bullet had ripped into his abdomen after grazing his arm.

According to the police, a suspect has been taken into custody from the spot, who confessed to firing gunshot on the minister over the Khatm-i-Nabuwat issue.

Meanwhile, a first information report of the incident has been registered at the Shah Gharib police station with relevant sections of murder attempt under anti-terrorism law.

Inspector General of Police Punjab retired Capt Arif Nawaz said the police have also been probing involvement of any facilitators in the incident.

Police said Abid Hussain, 22, fired at the minister from a distance of some 15 yards with 30-bore weapon moments after the minister finished his speech and leaving the meeting venue.