E-fit of suspect released after Pakistani politician murdered

(PA)

Police investigating the murder of a Pakistani politician released an e-fit of one of his suspected attackers today.

Imran Farooq, 50, died from stab wounds and head injuries in an ambush outside his home in Edgware, north London.

Investigators recovered a kitchen knife and a brick used in the attack, but do not know if it was politically motivated.

They released an e-fit image showing an Asian man described as having "piercing eyes", a pointed face and a distinctive goatee beard.

Police also want to trace a second Asian man who eyewitnesses said was in the area at the time of the attack.

Up to 3,000 police officers have been drafted in ahead of Dr Farooq's burial in Pakistan tomorrow.

His body was due to be flown into Karachi today amid secrecy over how his body will be transported to a burial site.

Some businesses will close due to fears of a repeat of the unrest that followed his murder and people have been banned from carrying weapons.

Dr Farooq, a prominent member of the MQM (Muttahida Quami Movement) party, was living in exile after fleeing his homeland 11 years ago following death threats.

His widow Shumaila Imran, 42, said the death of the "dedicated family man" left her and others in "shock and disbelief".

Detectives from Scotland Yard's Counter Terrorism Command took responsibility for the murder inquiry because of fears it may be politically motivated.

Dr Farooq was on his way home from work when he was attacked in Green Lane, Edgware, shortly before 5.30pm on September 16.

A post mortem examination found he died as a result of multiple stab wounds and blunt trauma to his head. The weapons were found nearby.

:: Anyone with information should call the incident room on 0208 721 3784 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.