Incident Overview
Islamabad – Superintendent of Police (SP) Adeel Akbar, a senior officer serving in the Industrial Area of Islamabad, has reportedly died by suicide. According to police sources, the officer sustained injuries while attempting to seize a firearm from a gunman. Following the incident, he allegedly shot himself.
Authorities rushed SP Akbar to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) hospital in critical condition. Despite immediate medical intervention, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Service Background
SP Adeel Akbar had been serving in Islamabad Police for several years, overseeing security operations in the Industrial Area. He was recognized for his hands-on approach to law enforcement and was involved in managing security arrangements across sensitive locations in the city.
Just hours before the incident, Akbar had conducted an inspection of security arrangements in Haji Camp, a major commercial and transit hub in Islamabad. During the visit, he met on-duty officers, reviewed operational protocols, and advised personnel to remain vigilant. His visit had also been documented in an official Islamabad Police social media post, including photographs of the SP interacting with officers.
Details of the Incident
While specific details remain limited, police sources indicate that SP Akbar was injured during a confrontation with a gunman. The sources suggest that he attempted to take control of the weapon, sustaining injuries in the process. Subsequently, he reportedly used a firearm on himself.
The circumstances surrounding the event are still under investigation. Authorities have not yet released a formal statement regarding whether the suicide was directly linked to the confrontation or other factors. Local media reports have largely relied on police statements and hospital confirmations.
Context on Police Challenges in Pakistan
Incidents involving police officers and firearms have highlighted the challenging conditions under which law enforcement personnel operate in Pakistan. Officers often face armed criminals, crowded urban areas, and limited protective resources, increasing the risk of injury or fatal incidents.
According to the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP), there were over 50 reported deaths of police personnel in operational incidents nationwide in 2024 alone. While not all were suicides, the figures underscore the high-risk environment for officers.
Reaction and Public Response
The death of SP Akbar has elicited reactions from Islamabad Police officials and members of the public. Colleagues have expressed shock and sadness, describing him as a committed officer dedicated to public safety. Social media posts from Islamabad Police highlighted his recent activities and emphasized his focus on operational efficiency and officer preparedness.
The police department has indicated that an internal inquiry will be conducted to review the circumstances surrounding the incident. Authorities have also urged the public to allow the investigation to proceed without speculation.
Conclusion
The reported death of SP Adeel Akbar is a stark reminder of the pressures faced by law enforcement personnel in Pakistan. As investigations continue, the incident has drawn attention to officer safety, mental health support, and the operational risks inherent in policing urban centers.
