In a significant breakthrough, the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) has arrested Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Inspector Atiq Alam, who has been on the run for a year and a half, for orchestrating the target killing of Sufi Abdul Qayyum in Gulistan-e-Johar, Karachi, according to ARY News.
Background of the Case
The chilling incident took place on February 21, 2023, when Sufi Abdul Qayyum, an imam and a revered figure in the community, was gunned down in cold blood while returning home after leading Fajr prayers. The murder shocked the local community, sparking outrage and raising concerns about security and law enforcement in the area.
Initial investigations revealed that the murder was a planned assassination, with two suspects, Ali Akbar and Tanveer, being apprehended shortly after the incident. The investigation pointed to a deeper conspiracy involving a land dispute, which eventually led the authorities to suspect that the crime was not just a random act of violence but a premeditated hit ordered by someone with significant resources.
The Arrest of FIA Inspector Atiq Alam
After an extensive manhunt lasting over a year and a half, CTD officials, acting on a secret tip-off, successfully apprehended Atiq Alam, the alleged mastermind behind the killing. Alam, who had been evading capture since the murder, was arrested in the Gulistan-e-Johar area of Karachi.
DSP CTD Chaudhry Safdar, who led the operation, confirmed the arrest, stating, “Inspector Atiq Alam had been missing for over 18 months. His involvement in the murder of Sufi Abdul Qayyum was confirmed during our investigation, and today, we have finally brought him into custody.”
According to the CTD, the investigation into the murder was initially handled by local police, but due to the complexities and the involvement of high-profile individuals, the case was transferred to the CTD on the orders of the Inspector General of Sindh.
Details of the Crime
The investigation revealed that the murder was motivated by a land dispute. Atiq Alam, who was allegedly involved in a legal battle with Sufi Abdul Qayyum over a piece of land, is said to have hired hitmen to eliminate Qayyum. The two hired killers, Ali Akbar and Tanveer, were promised Rs 5 lakh for carrying out the assassination.
“Atiq Alam orchestrated the murder, believing it would resolve the ongoing land dispute in his favor. The two killers, now in custody, have confessed to their involvement and have provided crucial information leading to Alam’s arrest,” DSP Safdar explained.
Ongoing Investigation
With Alam now in custody, the CTD is continuing its investigation to uncover the full extent of the conspiracy. The arrest marks a significant step forward in the case, but authorities believe there may be more individuals involved in the plot.
“The investigation is ongoing, and we are committed to bringing all those involved to justice,” added DSP Safdar.
