An Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) director general, Shamshad Khan, was shot dead by unidentified armed men in Tank, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, on Saturday, October 10, 2026. Following the killing, the Election Commission called for stronger security measures to protect government employees.
According to Tank District Police Officer Abdul Samad Khan, Shamshad Khan had travelled to his ancestral village, Garah Baloch, after his brother died. He was attending condolence gatherings at his residence when the attackers opened fire as he stepped outside. He died at the scene.
Police Launch Search Operation After the Shooting
Police cordoned off the crime scene and launched a search operation. Their aim was to identify and arrest those responsible. However, reports published on October 11 did not identify the attackers or establish their motive.
The investigation is still underway. Although the Election Commission described the incident as a targeted killing, police had not confirmed who carried out the attack or why Shamshad Khan was targeted.
The shooting took place in Tank, a district in southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa that has faced security challenges. However, authorities have not established who was behind this particular attack.
Election Commission Condemns the Killing
The Election Commission of Pakistan expressed deep sorrow over the death of its senior officer. It also praised his professional integrity and dedication to public service. Meanwhile, the Chief Election Commissioner, commission members, the ECP secretary and other employees offered condolences to his family.
In its statement, the commission said Shamshad Khan had no known personal enmity with anyone. It described the incident as a targeted killing. In addition, the commission urged the government to take effective steps to protect public servants from terrorist attacks.
Investigation Into Shamshad Khan’s Killing Continues
The killing has raised fresh concerns about the safety of government officials in southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. However, investigators have yet to determine whether the attack was linked to Shamshad Khan’s official duties or another motive.
As of October 11, police were continuing their efforts to trace the suspects. No arrests or claims of responsibility had been confirmed in the latest available reports.
