Politician's widow in killer plea

The widow of murdered Pakistani politician Dr Imran Farooq appealed for help to catch his killer
12 April 2012

The widow of a murdered Pakistani politician collapsed with emotion as she appealed for help to catch his killer.

Dr Imran Farooq, 50, died from stab wounds and head injuries after he was attacked outside his home in Edgware, north London, last Friday.

Police fear the killing could be politically motivated as he was a prominent member of the MQM (Muttahida Quami Movement) party.

His widow Shumaila Imran, 42, said the death of the "dedicated family man" had left her and others in "shock and disbelief". Speaking at New Scotland Yard, she said "someone, somewhere" holds important information about the murder.

Choked with tears, she added: "I want to make my own personal appeal for help in catching the people who killed my husband Dr Imran Farooq. Dr Imran Farooq was a dedicated family man, a loving father and a loving husband. His murder a week ago has devastated me and left our family in a state of shock and disbelief.

"My husband was on his way home from work when he was set upon and attacked. I want to appeal today for anyone who has any information about the attack on Imran to come forward and tell the police what they know. Someone, somewhere knows something about my husband's murder."

Mrs Imran, who has two young sons, was supported by a relative as she spoke to media from Britain and Pakistan.

She said: "It does not matter how insignificant this information may seem to you - it could be absolutely vital to the police investigation. I would like to thank everyone who has supported me and my family and sent us their best wishes and condolences. I would also like to thank the police for their help and support during this very difficult time."

Dr Farooq was found with fatal injuries outside his home in Green Lane, Edgware, shortly before 5pm last Thursday. He was on his way home from work when he was attacked. Witnesses said they saw two men of Asian origin fighting.

Dr Farooq was living in exile after fleeing his homeland 11 years ago following death threats. His murder sparked violence in Karachi, where vehicles and shops were set alight despite a call for 10 days of peaceful mourning.

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