Iqbal was shot on the right shoulder while he was in his car being about to leave a public meeting in Narowal where the minister held a speech, the politician's aide Asim Khan confirmed.
"He is out of danger and being taken to a medical facility in Lahore. The attacker has been arrested," the official added.
One of the shooter has been arrested and being interrogated by the police. Ahsan Iqbal is being treated at DHQ hospital Narowal.
— Govt Of The Punjab (@GovtOfPunjab) May 6, 2018
Media reported that the shooter was a resident of Narowal aged between 20-22 years. A pistol was recovered from the detained assailant. Investigation is currently underway.
BREAKING: Pakistan interior Minister shot and injured in a failed assassination attempt; police arrest the suspect. pic.twitter.com/NPYrxGy6Gr
— Ahmed Kosar (@AhmedKosar1) May 6, 2018
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The country's Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi has condemned the attack, which comes as Pakistan is preparing for general elections due to take place in summer. The suspected assassination attempt is believed to raise political tensions in the country ahead of the vote.
Strongly condemn the assassination attempt on my friend Ahsan Iqbal… Just spoke to him & he is in high spirits MashaAllah… Those who indulged in this heinous act will be brought to justice… PMLN will not be browbeaten into submission… Prayers for quick recovery!! —ss
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) May 6, 2018
