In Mardan, a major development has emerged in the double murder case at a Sikh gurdwara, where police have arrested one of their own personnel. The arrested suspect was also found in possession of the pistol and motorcycle used in the incident.

DPO Mardan Masood Bangash, while addressing a press conference at his office, said that yesterday in Baboo Mohalla, a residential area of Mardan, 70-year-old Jagnat son of Hari Ram and his wife Asawanti were shot dead inside a Sikh place of worship. Both husband and wife were employed at the gurdwara.

He said that the police investigative team, using modern scientific methods and CCTV footage, identified the suspect involved in the incident and arrested him within 24 hours.

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According to the DPO, during interrogation the suspect confessed to the double murder and termed it a personal act; however, police are investigating the case from all possible angles.

He further stated that the arrested suspect, Sher Shah son of Nadar Shah, a resident of Amazogarhi, now Iranabad Mardan, is a serving police officer. He had previously served at the same gurdwara three years ago and was currently posted at Police Lines Mardan. The suspect’s father is also serving in the police.

The DPO added that initial investigations have not found any link of the suspect with any banned organization or terrorist group, but the investigation is still ongoing.

On the other hand, Provincial Assembly member from Mardan representing the minority community, Suresh Kumar, told media that fear was present among the minority community after the incident, but the swift police action has restored confidence. He said they have full trust in the police investigation and have withdrawn their protest call.