SOUTH WAZIRISTAN: A prominent tribal leader and recipient of Presidential Award, Abdul Khaliq Wazir, was killed when unidentified gunmen ambushed his vehicle in Wana, Lower South Waziristan, on Friday.

Police said that the tragic incident occurred in the morning when unknown assailants targeted vehicle of the elder near Wana Press Club on Azam Warsak Road.

Abdul Khaliq sustained critical injuries and was rushed to District Headquarters Hospital, Wana. Later, he was referred to a hospital in Dera Ismail Khan, but he succumbed to his injuries on the way.

Law enforcement agencies swiftly cordoned off the area and collected evidence from the crime scene. Preliminary investigations suggest two armed attackers were involved in the shooting, who managed to flee after the incident.

The police and other security agencies have launched an investigation and pursuing multiple leads to apprehend the suspects.

The killing of Abdul Khaliq Wazir has sent shockwaves throughout the region. Various tribal and social figures from Wazir tribe in Lower South Waziristan expressed profound grief and sorrow over his killing.

Mr Wazir held a distinguished position among Wazir tribes and was widely respected for his dedicated efforts toward the welfare and development of tribal communities.

In recognition of his social services, the government of Pakistan had honoured him with Presidential Award.

Published in Dawn, February 22nd, 2025