Ameer Balaj Tipu, 34, a prominent figure in Lahore’s underworld and owner of a goods transport network, was the son of Arif Amir, alias Tipu Truckanwala. His father fell victim to a fatal attack in 2010 at the Allama Iqbal airport, and Balaj’s grandfather was also killed in an age-old feud, adding to the family’s history of violence.
He was shot dead at a wedding ceremony in Lahore on Sunday night. According to media reports, an unknown assailant killed him in the Chung area of the city during the ceremony. The attacker, who entered the wedding ceremony disguised as a guest, was promptly killed by Balaj’s security guard after opening fire on Balaj and two other guests, severely injuring them.
The three victims were rushed to Jinnah Hospital, where the son of Tipu Truckanwala was pronounced dead, while the two others are under treatment. Police authorities have sealed off the area and initiated a thorough investigation into the incident to determine the motive behind the murder.
The sudden death of Tipu Truckanwala has sparked fury among his supporters. Heart-wrenching scenes were witnessed at the hospital, where some women cried out and condemned the perpetrators.
Police state their primary focus is to uncover the motive behind the attack and identify the assailant. As of now, no arrests have been made. Ameer Balaj Tipu was widely regarded as one of the most influential and feared personalities in Lahore’s underworld.
A case has been registered against four unidentified assailants based on the complaint of one of the deceased’s younger brothers, Mussab Balaj. The complainant has nominated Khawaja Tareef, alias Teefi Butt, and Khawaja Aqeel, alias Gogi Butt. The application states that the killers called out Ameer’s enmity with Teefi and Gogi Butt before opening fire. It also claimed that the assailant was killed in the firing by his accomplices.
Ameer Balaj’s funeral prayers will reportedly be held after Asr prayers at Shah Alam Chowk. He has left behind a wife and two sons.
