CCD sources say three accused allegedly crossed border through illegal routes as investigators continue efforts to establish motive and wider links

LAHORE: Three suspected shooters allegedly involved in the murder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Abdullah Tahir have reportedly fled Pakistan, complicating the ongoing investigation into the high-profile killing.

According to sources in the Crime Control Department (CCD), the suspects identified as Arsalan, Sikandar and Zeeshan allegedly escaped from the country through illegal routes after leaving Lahore following the attack.

The development comes weeks after gunmen targeted Abdullah Tahir in Lahore’s Gulberg area on July 29. Following the deadly shooting, investigators launched efforts to trace and arrest those allegedly responsible for carrying out the attack.

Special Police Team Returns Without Arrests

Meanwhile, authorities constituted a special team to track down the suspected shooters after investigators received information about their possible whereabouts.

However, the team returned without making any arrests after failing to locate the accused.

According to sources, investigators suspect the three men may have used contacts linked to banned organisations to facilitate their movement across the border. Authorities have not publicly provided evidence establishing such links, while the suspects remain wanted in connection with the investigation.

Furthermore, officials are attempting to determine how the accused allegedly managed to leave Pakistan despite an active search operation.

Investigation Faces Setback Over Missing Suspects

The reported escape has created a significant challenge for investigators seeking to establish the circumstances surrounding Tahir’s murder.

CCD officials have yet to determine the precise role of the principal suspects because investigators have been unable to arrest and interrogate the alleged attackers.

Consequently, several important aspects of the case, including the motive behind the killing and the possible involvement of other individuals, remain under investigation.

Authorities are continuing efforts to trace the suspects and determine their movements following the Gulberg attack.

The CCD has not yet announced further arrests or provided details about possible legal measures to secure the suspects’ return to Pakistan.