Counter-Terror Police Probe 'Highly Targeted' Attacks on Pakistani Dissidents in UK
Scotland Yard's counter-terrorism command has launched an investigation into a series of highly targeted attacks on two Pakistani dissidents residing in Britain. The incidents, which began on Christmas Eve, involve physical assault, attempted arson, and the use of firearms, raising concerns about potential state involvement through criminal proxies.
Details of the Attacks
The first attack occurred on Christmas Eve in Chesham, Buckinghamshire, where two men broke into a dissident's home just after 8am and vandalised the property. Simultaneously, in Cambridgeshire, human rights lawyer Mirza Shahzad Akbar, a former member of Imran Khan's cabinet and a critic of Pakistan's current regime, was assaulted at his home. Akbar, 48, described being punched 25-30 times in the face by a masked attacker who appeared trained, with proper footwork like a boxer.
On 31 December, a second attack targeted Akbar's home shortly after he left the premises. CCTV footage showed two masked men, one firing three shots from a firearm into the front window, while another attempted to set the house ablaze with a burning rag. Neighbours intervened, causing the attackers to flee.
A third attack followed on 10 January, where a man sprayed chemicals on the exterior wall, broke windows with an iron bar, and fled after alarms sounded. Police reported racist graffiti was also sprayed on the home's exterior.
Victims' Fears and Political Context
Akbar, who has gone into hiding with his family on police advice, expressed fear for his life, stating he believes the attacks are politically motivated due to his criticism of the Pakistani regime. He noted that despite one arrest, the continued assaults suggest those behind them are mocking the UK police and government. Akbar was previously targeted in an unsolved acid attack at his home in 2023.
The other victim, a prominent supporter of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan, also reported being in hiding after the attacks. Both individuals have criticised the UK Foreign Office for its silence on the matter, with one victim accusing the attackers of mocking the UK's resolve.
Police Investigation and Broader Implications
Counter-terrorism officers have taken over the investigation from local police, with one 34-year-old man arrested on suspicion of attempted arson and possession of a firearm in connection with the 31 December incident. He has been released on bail pending further inquiries. Police are keeping an open mind regarding motivations and potential links between the incidents.
Sources indicate that such investigations have previously focused on states like Russia, Iran, and China, but Pakistan has not featured prominently until now. The use of a firearm in these attacks is also noted as unusual in such contexts.
Responses and Calls for Action
The human rights group Reprieve, supporting Akbar, has called on the government to publicly condemn the attacks, warning that silence risks sending a dangerous signal. The Foreign Office has declined to comment due to the ongoing police investigation.
This case highlights growing concerns about state-linked criminal activities targeting dissidents on UK soil, underscoring the need for robust security measures and political will to address such threats.
