Maulana Muhammad Idrees killed in targeted attack in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, protests erupt in Charsadda.
May 5, 2026: A prominent cleric, Maulana Muhammad Idrees, was shot dead in a targeted attack in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Tuesday. Unidentified gunmen ambushed his vehicle in the Utmanzai area of Charsadda while he was on his way to deliver a religious lecture. He sustained critical injuries and died en route to hospital, while two security guards were also injured.
The killing sparked protests in the region, with hundreds taking to the streets demanding swift action against those responsible. Police have launched an investigation, and senior officials, including Inspector General Zulfiqar Hameed, have directed authorities to ensure the arrest of the attackers.
Leaders across Pakistan condemned the incident, including President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who expressed grief and extended condolences. The cleric, associated with Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) and close to Fazlur Rehman, was widely respected for his contributions to religious education.