Significant developments have emerged in the investigation of the assassination of prominent Islamic scholar and former JUI parliamentarian Maulana Sheikh Idris, with investigators reporting evidence suggesting possible involvement of multiple extremist networks, including Afghan Taliban-linked elements and the Fitna al-Khawarij network.
Although the attack was initially claimed by ISIS-Khorasan (ISKP), security and intelligence assessments are now examining potential underlying linkages and coordination between extremist groups operating across the border, including alleged covert alignments with Afghan Taliban factions. Authorities emphasize that these findings are part of an ongoing and complex investigation and have not yet been conclusively established.
The killing of Maulana Idris, who was martyred in a targeted shooting incident in Charsadda on May 5, has triggered an extensive counterterrorism investigation involving multiple law enforcement and intelligence agencies.
Investigators confirmed that seven key suspects have been arrested in connection with the case. The arrests were carried out from the Mardan region, and all detained individuals are currently being interrogated as part of efforts to uncover the broader network behind the attack.
Authorities further stated that geofencing operations are underway across Peshawar, Charsadda, and Nowshera to trace movement patterns and identify additional facilitators. Investigators are also reviewing CCTV footage and digital evidence, including a video reportedly showing a suspected target killer fleeing the Charsadda area.
According to official sources, surveillance footage places a suspected assailant in the Chamkani and Kohat Road areas of Peshawar prior to the incident. On the day of the attack, the individual is believed to have traveled from Chamkani via a service road on a motorcycle, reaching Charsadda around 5:30 a.m., shortly before the fatal shooting occurred.
Security officials confirmed that the investigation is being conducted with the assistance of Safe City surveillance teams and multiple specialized investigative units, ensuring a coordinated and technology-driven approach to the case.
Law enforcement authorities reiterated their commitment to bringing all perpetrators and facilitators of the attack to justice, stating that no effort will be spared in dismantling the networks responsible for targeted killings of religious scholars and public figures.
The investigation remains ongoing, with officials cautioning that further arrests and revelations are expected as intelligence analysis and forensic examinations continue.
