Islamabad: In a tragic incident that has sent shockwaves through the law enforcement community, Superintendent of Police (SP) Adeel Akbar was found dead in his official vehicle in Islamabad on Thursday.
According to Islamabad Police, initial findings indicate that SP Adeel Akbar allegedly shot himself. He was rushed to Polyclinic Hospital in critical condition, where doctors pronounced him dead upon arrival. An inquiry has been launched to determine the exact cause and motive behind the incident.
Final Moments Before the Incident
Investigations reveal that SP Adeel Akbar had taken a pistol from one of his staff members near a private hotel before firing a shot into his chest. His operator, Muzammil Shah, has been taken into custody for questioning.
Authorities have confirmed that SP Adeel Akbar’s death is being treated with utmost sensitivity, and forensic analysis of the weapon has been initiated.
A Dedicated Officer with a Promising Career
Hailing from Gujrat District, SP Adeel Akbar belonged to the 46th Common of the Police Service of Pakistan (PSP). Recently posted as SP Industrial Area, Islamabad, he was known among colleagues for his professionalism, composure, and commitment to public service.
He held an MPhil in Governance and Public Policy from the National Defence University (NDU), Islamabad, and had previously served in Balochistan, where he led several key policing units. His areas of expertise included counterterrorism, security management, human rights protection, and community policing.
Mental Stress and Long Working Hours Reported
Sources within the police department suggest that SP Adeel Akbar had been under considerable mental and physical stress due to long working hours and intense official pressure.
Reports indicate that the officer had recently submitted medical documents requesting leave, which were not approved. According to colleagues, he had expressed exhaustion from continuous night duties and appeared withdrawn in recent days.
Moments before the incident, SP Adeel Akbar was reportedly on a phone call. Soon after ending the call, he allegedly fired the fatal shot.
Last Official Appearance Before the Tragedy
Just hours before the incident, the Islamabad Police’s official X (formerly Twitter) account posted photos of SP Adeel Akbar visiting Haji Camp, underscoring his active engagement in official duties. The post highlighted his dedication to public service — making his sudden death even more devastating for fellow officers and subordinates.
A Haunting Final Tweet Resurfaces
Following his death, one of SP Adeel Akbar’s earlier tweets went viral on social media. The post read:
“Jo baatein pee gaya tha main, woh baatein kha gayeen mujhko.”
“The words I once swallowed have now begun to consume me.”
The poetic yet melancholic message has prompted widespread discussion online. Many users described it as a glimpse into the emotional burden faced by police officers, while others saw it as a heartbreaking reflection of unspoken pain.
Police Launch Inquiry Into SP Adeel Akbar’s Death
A spokesperson for Islamabad Police confirmed that a formal investigation is underway to ascertain the circumstances of SP Adeel Akbar’s death. Authorities have pledged transparency and said further details will be shared once verified.
The tragedy has sparked renewed debate over the mental health crisis among law enforcement officers in Pakistan, with growing calls for institutional reforms and psychological support mechanisms.
