Islamabad: A brave Pakistan Air Force officer, Group Captain Asim, embraced martyrdom after intervening to rescue a woman from an alleged attacker in Islamabad, police said.

According to Islamabad Police, Group Captain Asim was driving along Ninth Avenue when he noticed a motorcyclist pulling a woman’s arm. Acting as a responsible citizen, he turned his vehicle around and approached the motorcycle to assess the situation and offer assistance.

Police said the woman then moved towards Group Captain Asim’s vehicle. At that point, the suspect, identified as Saad, allegedly verbally abused the officer before opening fire. Group Captain Asim sustained critical gunshot wounds and later succumbed to his injuries, attaining martyrdom. The suspect fled the scene immediately after the attack.

According to investigators, the woman told police that the suspect was her colleague at work. He had offered to take her to the office but later changed the route and allegedly attempted to take her to another location against her will. When she resisted, an altercation ensued.

The woman stated that Group Captain Asim intervened at the right moment, ensuring her safety before the suspect resorted to gunfire.

Law enforcement agencies have launched operations to apprehend the accused, and efforts are underway to bring him to justice.

Police said Group Captain Asim is survived by his widow, a daughter, and a son. His courageous act of selflessly stepping in to protect another person has been widely hailed as an example of exceptional bravery and public service.