Pakistan Journalist Rabia Ahsan Found Shot Dead at Home, Husband Taken into Custody

Islamabad: TV anchor and programme host Rabia Ahsan was shot dead in her house in Rawalpindi, Pakistan. The incident took place in Gulshanabad area on Sunday. Police have detained her husband Ahsan Tahir Khan in the case. A pistol and cartridges have also been recovered from the spot. On the complaint of Rabia's brother Khurram Ahmed, the police have registered a case of murder against the husband. In the initial investigation, the husband has said that the bullet was fired accidentally, whereas in the family's complaint, he has been accused of firing the bullet intentionally.

What happened inside the house?

According to Pakistani media reports, the family members present in the house rushed towards the room after hearing the sound of gunshot. When Rabia's sister reached the room, she was lying on the ground soaked in blood. According to the complainant, Ahsan Tahir had a pistol in his hand at that time. The police inspected the spot and the forensic team collected necessary evidence from there. Rabia's body was sent to the hospital for post-mortem.

What did the husband tell the police?

According to the police, during interrogation, Ahsan Tahir claimed that the pistol was in her hand and during this suddenly a bullet was fired. He also said that he was not aware that the weapon was loaded with bullets. An employee working in the house also told the police that after the incident the husband had said that the bullet was fired by mistake. However, in the complaint of Rabia's brother, it has been described as murder. The police are investigating the case on the basis of these statements and evidence found from the incident site.

Who was Rabia Ahsan?

41-year-old Rabia Ahsan was associated with Pakistan's private news channel 92 News. She worked as an anchor and programme host on the channel. She also co-hosted the current affairs programme with senior journalists Aamir Mateen and Rauf Klasra. She was recognised in the world of journalism as an active TV anchor. She was the mother of two daughters, aged 13 and 11.

What did the first lady of Pakistan say?

Expressing grief over Rabia's murder, Pakistan's First Lady Asifa Bhutto Zardari has demanded a fair and transparent investigation into the matter. She said that all the facts of the incident should be brought out and the accountability of those responsible should be fixed. She also mentioned the death of digital media officer Hina Javed in Rawalpindi in August. Hina was found dead in her house and injury marks were found on her body.

How did journalists express grief?

After the news of Rabia's death came to light, Pakistani journalists and people associated with the media world expressed condolences. Her former colleagues expressed condolences to her family, especially her two daughters, describing her as a dedicated journalist and good anchor. Senior journalist Rauf Klasra also expressed grief over his demise.

At present, the police have taken the husband into custody and started investigation. Further action will be taken based on the forensic report and postmortem results.