Attack on Eng Muhammad Ali Mirza in Jehlum: Suspect was unarmed

A young man allegedly linked to a proscribed religious organisation attacked prominent religious scholar Muhammad Ali Mirza at his academy in Jhelum, police and local sources said on Sunday.

According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, the attacker was unarmed, and the cleric remained unharmed during the incident.

The assault took place after Mirza had concluded a religious lecture and was engaged in a photo session with attendees at his academy.

Witnesses said the suspect raised slogans before attempting to physically assault him. Security personnel and participants quickly intervened, preventing any serious harm.

The suspect was taken into custody at the scene and later shifted to the local police station for further investigation. Sources identified the accused as Muhammad Asim, a resident of Abbottabad.

Authorities are probing reports that he may have links to a banned religious organisation, though no official confirmation has yet been issued regarding the alleged affiliation.

The incident adds to a pattern of past threats and attacks against Muhammad Ali Mirza. In March 2021, Mirza survived an assassination attempt when an individual armed with a knife attacked him during a weekly meeting at the same academy.

He escaped with minor injuries, and police arrested the suspects involved. Earlier, in October 2017, he had also survived a separate attempt on his life.

In August 2023, another individual armed with a knife was overpowered by guards while allegedly trying to force entry into the academy.

Born on October 4, 1977, in Jhelum, Muhammad Ali Mirza is the son of Mirza Arshad Mahmud. He graduated in mechanical engineering from the University of Engineering and Technology, Taxila, and later served as a mechanical engineer in the Government of Punjab before resigning as his public profile grew.

He now delivers online lectures on religious issues through digital platforms and runs a research academy based on his interpretation of the Quran and Sunnah.

Mirza has also faced legal challenges and arrests in recent years. Police said investigations into the latest attack are ongoing, and further action will be taken in accordance with the law.

Reporter: Raja Waqar