Kidnapping of Shahbaz Ali Taseer: Details Emerge

Strategic Insights -

Shahbaz Ali Taseer, son of slain Governor of Punjab Salmaan Taseer, was kidnapped in broad daylight from C-2 Gulberg-III, Lahore, on August 27. Four men riding a car and a motorbike intercepted and held him hostage on gunpoint near his office at around 10:54 am. The Model Town Police investigators suspect that it was a work of a banned outfit, but no one has claimed responsibility.

Key Takeaways:

  • Shahbaz Ali Taseer was kidnapped in broad daylight from C-2 Gulberg-III, Lahore, on August 27.
  • The kidnappers used a 444 rifle in the incident, and a case (1036/11) was lodged against unidentified kidnappers under section 365 of PPC.
  • Two suspects were taken into custody, but they were released after initial investigations.
  • President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani directed the Inspector General Police (Punjab) to take all measures to recover Shahbaz Taseer.
  • The Punjab government took immediate action, with Punjab Law Minister Rana Sanaullah assuring the early release of Shahbaz.
  • The police investigated the crime scene and collected forensic evidence from Shahbaz's car and mobile phone.
  • A National Response Centre for Cyber Crimes (NR3C) team also visited Shahbaz's office and residence to collect forensic evidence.
  • High-ranking investigative teams comprising FIA, ISI, and City Police personnel were constituted to trace out the kidnappers.
  • Shahbaz's personal guard, Liaquat, told investigators that Shahbaz often used to travel in a bigger car, but on the day of the kidnapping, he was traveling in a smaller car.

Statistics:

  • The police found a 444 rifle at the crime scene.
  • The wreckage of the Mercedes (LZT-1) used by Shahbaz was found near the crime scene.
  • The police investigated the case under section 365 of PPC (kidnapping).
  • The Punjab government assured the early release of Shahbaz Taseer.

Sources:

  • BY, August 27, THE NATION
  • Asia Pulse, through (THROUGH ASIA PULSE)