Scotland Yard’s Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) unit has taken over the investigation into a violent assault on former prime minister’s adviser Shahzad Akbar at his Cambridge home. The assault occurred on the morning of December 24, leaving Akbar with serious injuries. Initially, local Cambridge police managed the case but later transferred it to London’s CTP due to the targeted nature of the attack.
Authorities received the evidence file from Cambridge police, which included CCTV footage, photographs, forensic reports, and Akbar’s statement. A spokesperson for Counter Terrorism Policing London confirmed that their officers are actively investigating the incident involving a man in his 50s. Scotland Yard emphasized that while the attack appears highly targeted, the motive remains under investigation. No arrests have been made so far, and the public is encouraged to provide information confidentially.
Akbar described the attack as deliberate and threatening, stating that the perpetrators attempted to set his house on fire. He claimed it was the second such attack within a week, targeting both him and his family. During the December 24 assault, a masked white man wearing gloves and protective clothing knocked on Akbar’s door, physically assaulted him, and caused a fractured jaw and broken nose. The attacker reportedly returned briefly to photograph and film the incident.
Akbar, who relocated to Cambridge from Royston about a year ago, fled Pakistan following the 2022 ouster of the PTI government. Since then, he has faced multiple legal challenges and has been openly critical of political authorities. This Cambridge attack echoes a previous 2023 acid assault at his Hertfordshire home, which Akbar also described as politically motivated.
Authorities have closed earlier investigations due to the inability to identify the assailants, heightening concerns over repeated threats. Akbar stressed that the United Kingdom has both a legal and moral responsibility to ensure safety for political dissidents and individuals at risk of persecution. He continues to call for rigorous action against those targeting him and his family.
The Counter Terrorism Policing London unit is coordinating the investigation with local authorities while examining all forensic and digital evidence. They have stated that there is no indication of a broader public threat linked to this attack. The case remains active, with investigators urging anyone with relevant information to contact authorities or submit anonymous tips.
This series of targeted attacks has drawn attention to the safety risks faced by former political figures abroad. The investigation’s outcome may set important precedents for handling assaults on high-risk individuals in the UK. As the inquiry continues, authorities are expected to scrutinize the motives behind these attacks closely.
