Ahmadi man Mubashir Virk survives targeted attack in Khushab; recovering after surgery as community demands justice against religious hate
Mubashir Ahmad Virk, a prominent member of the Ahmadiyya Community, is recovering after surviving a targeted assassination attempt in Khushab on December 29, raising alarm over rising religiously motivated violence in the region.
Mr Mubashir Ahmad Virk, 55, was returning home from his farmhouse on a motorcycle around 5:45 PM when an unidentified assailant fired at him from behind, hitting him in the abdomen. He was rushed to DHQ Hospital for emergency surgery and later transferred to a private facility, where he was placed on a ventilator. Authorities have yet to apprehend any suspects.
According to the latest update, Mr Virk’s ventilator was removed today, and he is reported to be recovering steadily.
The Ahmadiyya Community condemned the attack as part of an ongoing campaign of hate and intolerance. “This is not an isolated incident. Extremist elements in District Khushab have been inciting violence against Ahmadis for years,” said Amir Mahmood, spokesperson for the community.
Mahmood highlighted the growing climate of intimidation, including a mob that gathered outside the victim’s ancestral home, “Virk House,” following the attack, and the organised boycott of the family’s business, Virk Karyana Store. He also recalled a previous incident in May 2025, when 90 Ahmadi graves were desecrated in Rhoda, District Khushab.
The Ahmadiyya Community has demanded the immediate arrest of the shooter, a transparent investigation to identify facilitators and masterminds, and strict legal action against those promoting hate campaigns. Mahmood warned that continued inaction could endanger lives and damage Pakistan’s international reputation for human rights.
No official statement has yet been released by local law enforcement regarding progress in the investigation.
The original article can be found HERE.