GILGIT: Panic gripped Gilgit on Sunday after unknown gunmen launched two separate, high-profile attacks, one targeting cleric Maulana Qazi Nisar Ahmed and the other aimed at Senior High Court Judge Malik Inayat-ur-Rehman. The assaults wounded several people, forced businesses to close across the city and sparked road blockades and protests demanding the swift arrest of the perpetrators.
Gilgit-Baltistan’s Home Minister Shams Lone said the first attack took place near the Police Headquarters, where gunmen opened fire on Maulana Qazi Nisar Ahmed the Ameer of Ahl-e-Sunnat wal Jamaat, injuring him along with his driver and two security guards. All the injured were reported to be in stable condition.
The second incident occurred near City Hospital when assailants fired at the convoy of Chief Court Judge Malik Inayat-ur-Rehman. The judge escaped unharmed, though his vehicle sustained multiple bullet strikes. Officials put the total number of injured from both incidents at five.
A senior police official said two vehicles abandoned by the attackers were recovered near the scenes as investigators followed leads. Security forces have sealed off parts of the city while an inquiry continues.
Vehicle of Qazi Nisar which come under attack
“The attack on Qazi Nisar is a cowardly attempt to drag the region into chaos,” government spokesman Faizullah Faraq said, adding that authorities were determined to maintain peace and unity. Interior Minister Lone vowed the culprits would be traced and prosecuted, saying: “No one will be allowed to disrupt peace in Gilgit-Baltistan.”
The twin attacks prompted widespread anger. Protesters blocked roads in several parts of the city and erected barricades, while intercity traffic, including services between Gilgit and Islamabad, was suspended amid heightened security concerns. Youth groups and civil society staged demonstrations condemning the violence and demanding immediate action.
Provincial leaders condemned the shootings and ordered expedited investigations. The governor and chief minister issued statements denouncing the attacks as attempts to undermine stability and urged law enforcement to arrest those responsible “without delay.” The provincial home department has been asked to submit a detailed report.
A vehicle (suzuki)captured in CCTV footage allegedly driven by the terrorist to flee from the area after attack
Social media in the region buzzed with outrage, with users calling for accountability and enhanced protection for public figures. Businesses in central commercial areas shut their shutters as a precaution, and security has been stepped up at key installations across the city.
A file photo of Senior High Court Judge Malik Inayat-ur-Rehman who also come under attack in Gilgit
Authorities have appealed for calm and cooperation from the public while promising full transparency as the probe proceeds. No group has claimed responsibility for the attacks.
