Islamabad: Senior Islamabad Police officials believe that the death of Superintendent of Police (SP) Adeel Akbar was most likely accidental, with early findings suggesting up to an 80 percent probability that the shooting occurred unintentionally, according to high-level police sources.
Sources told reporters that multiple factors led investigators to this preliminary conclusion. Minutes before his death, SP Akbar was reportedly on his way to meet someone regarding his promotion, but the individual was not present at the office. “He was concerned about his promotion but in no way appeared suicidal,” one senior police official said.
Officials further disclosed that SP Akbar had been actively preparing for a Fulbright Scholarship, with a test scheduled for the following day. He had also submitted his academic documents for verification. “He was deeply focused on his professional growth and career advancement, which makes the possibility of suicide extremely unlikely,” the source added.
Initial Investigations
According to investigators, SP Akbar’s demeanor throughout the day was normal, and no signs of distress were reported. Minutes before the incident, he had also spoken with the Assistant Commissioner (AC) Saddar in a calm and routine manner.
Initial findings indicate that when the gunman handed Akbar his submachine gun (SMG), the officer performed a Normal Safety Precaution (NSP) to ensure the chamber was empty — a step rarely taken by someone intending self-harm. He then reportedly attempted to fit the magazine into the weapon while holding it upright in front of him.
Forensic experts noted that the bullet entered at a 65-degree angle, striking between both eyebrows — a trajectory inconsistent with most self-inflicted gunshot wounds. “It is extremely difficult for a person to commit suicide with an SMG, as such weapons are typically held under the chin during intentional shootings,” a technical expert said.
Police sources emphasized that while initial evidence points to an accidental discharge, investigators are keeping all possibilities open. “No scenario is being ruled out at this stage. The investigation remains ongoing to ensure every aspect of the incident is thoroughly examined,” the official added.
SP Adeel Akbar, who served as Superintendent of Police for Islamabad’s Industrial Area Zone, died after sustaining a gunshot wound near the Serena Hotel earlier this week.
