Pakistani TV Anchor Rabia Ahsan Shot Dead At 41; Husband Arrested As Police Launch Investigation

Pakistani television journalist Rabia Ahsan has been shot dead at her residence in Rawalpindi, with police launching an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death. The 41-year-old news anchor was reportedly killed at around 3 pm, allegedly by her husband, Ahsan Tahir.

Following the incident, police took Tahir into custody and recovered the suspected firearm. Rabia, who worked as a news anchor and programme presenter for the Urdu-language television channel 92 News, was reportedly at home when the shooting occurred.

The incident has attracted attention because Rabia had shared what was reportedly her final broadcast just hours before her death. Authorities are continuing to investigate the shooting, while the motive behind the incident has not yet been established.

Rabia Ahsan Shooting: What Happened At Her Rawalpindi Home?

According to media reports, Rabia was attending to her work at home when her husband allegedly opened fire on her around midday. Her mother and sister were reportedly also living at the residence but were outside when the shooting took place.

Rabia's sister allegedly rushed into the bedroom after hearing a gunshot and discovered the journalist lying in a pool of blood. Her husband was reportedly holding the firearm when she entered the room.

Reports further claim that Tahir told investigators he had fired the weapon but did not realise that it was loaded. He has reportedly been questioned by police, although the circumstances surrounding the shooting remain under investigation. His firearm licence was also reportedly not presented during the initial investigation.

Rabia was a mother of two children. The couple's family circumstances have also drawn attention following the incident, although no confirmed information about the children's whereabouts has been made public.

Rabia Ahsan's Last Broadcast Video Before Her Death

Hours before the fatal shooting, Rabia reportedly shared her final television broadcast. In the programme, she discussed the United States' midterm elections.

The broadcast has since attracted attention following news of her death. Rabia was known for her work as a presenter on 92 News, where she covered current affairs and other news developments.

According to reports, the Punjab Forensic Science Authority recovered a .30-bore pistol and ammunition from the crime scene. Initial findings reportedly indicated that Rabia had sustained gunshot wounds to her neck and the right side of her back.

Rawalpindi Police Promise Impartial Investigation Into Journalist's Killing

Rawalpindi Police Officer Hassan Mushtaq Sukherea said an impartial investigation would be conducted into the incident.

Officials have also stressed the importance of addressing such cases, stating that incidents of this nature "demand serious attention and accountability".

Pakistan's First Lady, Aseefa Bhutto-Zardari, also condemned Rabia's killing and expressed deep sadness over the incident. In her statement, she said that "women must be able to live and work without fear for their lives".

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Vinod Kapri Alleges ‘Pyre’ Screenings Slashed Amid ‘Ramayana: Rise Of A Legend’ Release

Meanwhile, reports have suggested that news of Tahir's alleged involvement came as a shock to people familiar with the couple. Sources cited in media coverage claimed that the two had not been known to have serious disagreements and were living together with their two children.

However, investigators have yet to establish the circumstances that led to the shooting. Police are continuing their inquiries, with forensic evidence expected to form part of the investigation.