LAHORE (Web Desk) – Former Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader and businessman Abdullah Tariq was shot dead after unidentified gunmen opened fire inside a private clinic in Lahore’s Gulberg area, while a doctor sustained injuries during the attack, police officials said.
According to police, the incident occurred when Abdullah Tariq arrived at the clinic for a routine physiotherapy session. Two armed men riding a motorcycle reached the clinic, entered the premises and opened indiscriminate fire before escaping from the scene.
Police officials said Abdullah Tariq suffered multiple bullet wounds and died on the spot despite immediate efforts to assist him. A doctor present inside the clinic was also struck by a bullet in the arm during the firing.
Hospital officials confirmed that the injured doctor was provided medical treatment and is now out of danger.
Police teams, forensic experts and senior officers reached the crime scene soon after receiving information about the incident. The area was sealed off while investigators collected forensic evidence, recorded witness statements and examined the scene.
Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Operations Faisal Kamran also visited the clinic to review the investigation and inspect the available evidence.
According to the DIG, the attackers fired four shots before fleeing on their motorcycle. Investigators have obtained CCTV footage from cameras installed inside and around the clinic, which has helped identify the suspects.
Police are now collecting surveillance footage from surrounding roads and commercial buildings to determine the escape route used by the attackers and trace their movements before and after the incident.
Officials said special investigation teams have been formed to arrest those involved and establish the motive behind the targeted killing.
Police revealed that Abdullah Tariq belonged to Okara and had previously contested elections on a Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf ticket.
Apart from his political activities, he was also involved in the construction sector, dealing in sand supply, and operated a transport business.
Investigators disclosed that Abdullah Tariq had survived an earlier assassination attempt in Okara approximately seven months ago.
Authorities said they are examining whether the previous attack has any connection with the latest killing.
Police added that all possible motives are under investigation, including personal enmity, business disputes and other criminal angles.
Speaking to reporters, the victim’s cousin, Masood, said Abdullah Tariq had arrived at the clinic alone for his scheduled physiotherapy appointment.
He stated that two armed men entered the clinic shortly after his arrival and opened fire before escaping.
Masood described Abdullah Tariq as a respected businessman and confirmed that there had previously been a dispute involving him, but claimed the matter had reportedly been settled.
He said the family was waiting for the outcome of the police investigation before commenting further on the motive behind the attack.
Police officials assured the family that every effort was being made to identify, locate and arrest the suspects as quickly as possible.
Investigators are also interviewing clinic staff, eyewitnesses and nearby shopkeepers to gather additional information that may assist in solving the case.
The incident has raised fresh concerns over targeted killings and public security, particularly in busy commercial areas where such attacks can place civilians at risk.
Law enforcement agencies have increased security in the area while continuing intelligence-based efforts to identify the attackers and any individuals who may have facilitated the crime.
Officials said further developments would be shared after forensic reports, CCTV analysis and witness statements are completed.
Police reiterated their commitment to ensuring that those responsible for Abdullah Tariq’s killing are brought to justice and that the motive behind the attack is fully established through a transparent investigation.
