LeT co-founder Amir Hamza shot in Lahore by unidentified gunmen; condition critical

Hamza was attacked outside a media office in Lahore by unknown assailants

April 16, 2026

Terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba’s Amir Hamza injured in shooting in Lahore

Authorities yet to identify assailants as probe begins

Amir Hamza, a co-founder of the banned terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), was shot by unidentified gunmen in Lahore on Thursday, sources said. The 66-year-old terrorist leader is reported to be in critical condition.

According to initial information, Hamza was attacked outside a media office in Lahore by unknown assailants. He was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors have described his condition as extremely serious.

This marks the second such attack on Hamza in less than a year. In May last year, he was shot outside his residence in Lahore and later hospitalised. Following that incident, security around him was reportedly increased by Pakistani authorities, though no official statement was issued at the time.

Who is Amir Hamza?

A veteran of the Afghan jihad, Hamza is considered one of the senior-most figures within Lashkar-e-Taiba after Hafiz Saeed. Over the years, he has held several key roles within the organisation, including involvement in its outreach and propaganda activities.

Known for his hardline speeches, Hamza has also authored literature linked to the group’s ideological messaging, including Qafila Da’wat aur Shahadat (2002). He has served as editor of the outfit’s official publication.

Hamza has been designated as a terrorist by the United States Department of the Treasury for his role in fundraising and supporting LeT’s activities. The group itself is banned in multiple countries, including India.

Following restrictions on front organisations such as Jamaat-ud-Dawa and Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation, Hamza is reported to have played a role in forming alternative fundraising channels, including Jaish-e-Manqafa in 2018.

Authorities have yet to identify the attackers or establish a motive behind the latest shooting. Further details are awaited as the situation develops.

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