The case of Adeel Akbar, a superintendent of police in Islamabad, has taken a dramatic turn as authorities launch a formal investigation into his death. According to multiple reports, Akbar sustained a bullet wound to the forehead while travelling in his official vehicle near the Serena Hotel under-pass in Islamabad.
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According to official sources, Akbar was accompanied by his driver and operator when the incident occurred. His operator reportedly told authorities that the SP took a weapon from them and fired at himself. Yet, investigators soon raised doubts due to the unusual angle of the bullet wound — roughly 65 degrees — which makes a self-inflicted shot from a sub-machine gun physically difficult. The Islamabad Capital Territory Police have now formed a three-member inquiry committee, headed by the Director General of the Safe City Authority, to determine the actual cause of death. The panel has been tasked with submitting its report within 48 hours.
Possible reasons for the alleged suicide are now coming to light. Several reports indicate that SP Adeel Akbar had been battling multiple health problems, including dengue fever and a recent bout of COVID-19. He had applied for medical leave from October 20 to 22, which was either delayed or not approved in time. He was also reportedly under immense stress from work and had sought psychiatric help twice in the days leading up to his death. Close colleagues described him as “deeply stressed” and “mentally exhausted” due to his illness and heavy workload.
Despite his health struggles, Akbar continued his duties after being transferred from Balochistan to Islamabad — a move that some say further strained him. He had also voiced security concerns, asking about the weapons and ammunition issued to his team. These details have prompted investigators to keep all angles open, including accidental shooting or foul play.
As the inquiry committee continues its investigation, the public awaits clarity on whether SP Adeel Akbar’s death was truly a suicide or part of a larger, darker mystery.
Some police officers suggest an accidental discharge is plausible, pointing out that the angle of the bullet wound (~65 degrees) makes a deliberate process unlikely with a sub-machine-gun. That said, the inquiry panel has been instructed not to rule anything out, including foul play.
Adding complexity, social media has witnessed viral claims that Akbar was involved in intelligence leaks and even alleged espionage — although no official body has confirmed such assertions.
