GILGIT, Aug 29: Unidentified motorcyclists shot dead a revenue official and his relative in Gilgit in broad daylight on Monday. The double murder, which occurred near NLI Market at about 4.45pm, shocked the residents and led to closure of markets.

Police officials identified the victim as Mr Salim who was posted at assistant commissioner's office in Gilgit and his relative as Mr Azfar.

Police said Mr Salim died on the spot while Azfar was brought to DHQ hospital where he succumbed to injuries as both were hit in the heads by the attackers. Police described the incident as targeted killing.

Police said the culprits had used 30-bore pistols and were more than two who escaped from the scene.

The news spread in the capital town as people started leaving markets fearing outbreak of violence as has happened in past.

The local people said the bodies could not be removed from the site for more than 30 minutes whereas the distance of the city police station from the crime scene is hardly five minutes drive. Eyewitnesses said the bodies were removed by the residents.

The city, which has been experiencing great hustle and bustle in connection with Eid shopping, was saddened after the news of the murder spread. Police said a case was yet to be registered.

SECURITY PLAN: The Gilgit-Baltistan police have chalked out a security for Eidul Fitr.

Official sources said action would be taken against those who would resort to aerial firing on announcement of the sighting of the moon of Shawwal, adding, measures had also been taken to provide foolproof security at Eid congregations.

Besides, walk-through gates have been set up at all Eidgahs with bomb disposal squads officials put on alert.

The administration has made arrangements to ensure uninterrupted electricity and water supply on Eid day. The municipal body has started cleaning the city before the auspicious day.

The traffic police have also prepared a plan to ensure smooth flow of traffic on the Eid day.

COMPENSATION: The government has compensated the heirs of those got killed in police firing in Hunza two weeks ago, officials said, adding, Rs300,000 was paid to heirs of each victim.

The compensation cheques were handed over by the speaker Gilgit-Baltistan Legislative Assembly at a ceremony held at Aliabad Hunza which was also attended by Finance Minister Mohammad Ali Akhtar.