KARACHI: A tragic incident occurred in the city’s Defence area, where renowned lawyer Khawaja Shams-ul-Islam was shot dead in a targeted attack, while his young son Daniyal was injured and rushed to the hospital.

The attack took place when Khawaja Shams-ul-Islam arrived at Masjid Quran Academy to attend a funeral. According to police and eyewitnesses, the assailant opened fire as soon as the lawyer stepped out of the mosque after the funeral prayers.

The gunman, who was wearing a shalwar kameez and had his face covered with a mask, fired at close range before fleeing the scene. Khawaja Shams-ul-Islam was critically injured and shifted to a nearby hospital, where he succumbed to his wounds. His son Daniyal also sustained bullet injuries but is now reported to be out of danger after receiving initial medical treatment.

Following the incident, police, Rangers, and other security agencies cordoned off the area and began collecting evidence. CCTV footage from the vicinity is being reviewed to identify the attacker. Law enforcement agencies have termed the incident a targeted killing and expanded the scope of their investigation.

Sources revealed that Khawaja Shams-ul-Islam had previously faced threats, and an assassination attempt on him in November 2024 had failed.

Authorities have yet to determine the motive behind the attack, while the legal fraternity and civil society have strongly condemned the killing, demanding the immediate arrest of the culprits.