RAWALPINDI (Web Desk) – A customs official was killed and another injured after unidentified gunmen opened fire on their official vehicle near the Interchange Toll Plaza in Rawalpindi on Thursday. Police have launched a comprehensive investigation and search operation to identify and arrest those responsible for the deadly attack.
According to police, the customs vehicle was travelling through the area when it came under heavy gunfire from unidentified assailants. The attackers fled immediately after the shooting, leaving one official dead and another critically injured.
The deceased official was identified as Jawad, while the injured officer, Baseerullah, was rushed to the District Headquarters (DHQ) Hospital for medical treatment. Hospital authorities confirmed that the body of the deceased was shifted for medico-legal formalities before being handed over to the family, while the injured official remained under medical care.
Rescue teams and law enforcement personnel reached the crime scene shortly after receiving information about the attack. Emergency responders secured the area and shifted both victims to the hospital as investigators began collecting evidence.
Officials said the customs vehicle caught fire after being struck by multiple bullets. Firefighters responded promptly and managed to extinguish the flames before they spread further. The vehicle sustained significant damage, and investigators are examining whether the fire was caused solely by the gunfire or by damage to the vehicle’s fuel or electrical system.
Police cordoned off the area to preserve evidence while forensic experts collected bullet casings and other material from the scene. Investigators also documented the damaged vehicle and surrounding area to assist in reconstructing the sequence of events.
Eyewitnesses were questioned as part of the investigation. Police recorded statements from motorists and residents who were near the toll plaza when the attack occurred. Authorities believe these accounts, along with forensic findings, could help identify the attackers and establish the route they used to escape.
Law enforcement agencies have launched a manhunt across Rawalpindi and adjoining areas. Search operations have been expanded to major roads and entry and exit points, while surveillance footage from nearby toll booths, highways and commercial establishments is being examined for clues.
A police spokesperson said modern investigative techniques, including digital surveillance, forensic analysis and intelligence gathering, were being used to trace the suspects. Authorities expressed confidence that those involved would be identified and arrested.
Investigators have not yet determined the motive behind the attack. Officials said all possible aspects are being examined, including whether the officials were specifically targeted because of their professional responsibilities or if other motives were involved. No group has claimed responsibility for the incident.
Senior police officers visited the crime scene to review the investigation and directed teams to ensure that all available evidence was collected. They stressed the importance of completing the inquiry through scientific methods to ensure those responsible are prosecuted.
The incident has raised concerns over the safety of officials performing enforcement duties. Security experts note that attacks on government personnel require swift investigations and coordinated law enforcement efforts to prevent similar incidents.
Authorities appealed to the public to cooperate with investigators by providing any information, photographs or video recordings that could assist in identifying the attackers. Citizens were urged to report suspicious activity through official police channels.
Police said no arrests had been made immediately after the attack but maintained that investigation teams were making progress through forensic evidence and intelligence-based operations. Officials added that further details would be released as the inquiry advanced.
The death of the customs official has been described as a significant loss for the department. Authorities reiterated their commitment to ensuring justice for the victim and his family while continuing efforts to arrest everyone involved in the attack.
Police said the investigation remains underway, with forensic reports, witness statements and surveillance footage expected to play a key role in solving the case and bringing the perpetrators before the courts.
