Unidentified gunmen shot terrorist Amir Hamza, a founding member of Lashkar-e-Taiba, outside a news channel office in Lahore.
He sustained severe injuries and remains in critical condition at a local hospital.
Hamza co-founded Lashkar-e-Taiba with Hafiz Saeed and played a central role in the group’s operations. He served on its central committee, managed recruitment, fundraising, and negotiations for detained militants. The United States Treasury Department lists him as a sanctioned terrorist, and Lashkar-e-Taiba remains designated as a terrorist organisation.
Hamza, a veteran of the Afghan mujahideen, gained notoriety for his fiery speeches and writings. He edited LeT’s official publication and authored several books, including Qafila Da’wat aur Shahadat in 2002. His influence extended across militant circles in Pakistan and beyond.
In 2018, after financial crackdowns on LeT-linked charities Jamaat-ud-Dawah and Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation, Hamza distanced himself from the group. He later founded Jaish-e-Manqafa, a splinter organisation allegedly continuing militant operations in Jammu and Kashmir. Reports suggest Hamza maintained close ties with LeT leadership despite his new outfit.
Indian media claim Jaish-e-Manqafa operates freely within Pakistan, raising concerns about ongoing militant activity. The attack on Hamza highlights internal rivalries and instability within extremist networks.
Authorities have not identified the attackers, and investigations are underway. The incident underscores the volatile environment surrounding militant leaders in Pakistan and its implications for regional security.
