An attempted armed attack targeting religious scholar Engineer Muhammad Ali Mirza was foiled on Sunday at the entrance of Al-Sabah Academy in Jhelum Cantt, where police responded swiftly and killed the assailant, officials and sources said.

According to initial reports, an unidentified armed man opened fire at the academy gate. Police personnel present on duty immediately retaliated, resulting in a gun battle in which the attacker was shot dead on the spot. Authorities have not yet confirmed the identity of the deceased suspect, and verification is underway.

During the exchange of fire, one police officer sustained injuries. Security officials also detained two individuals in injured condition in connection with the incident, sources added.

Following the incident, Muhammad Ali Mirza confirmed on social media that he and all participants of the Sunday gathering remained safe.

In his message, he stated that prompt action by law enforcement prevented a major tragedy, adding that one attacker was killed, two suspects were arrested in injured condition, and a police officer was wounded.

Security forces have cordoned off the area and launched an investigation to determine the motive behind the attack and possible links to any wider network.

Authorities say further details will be shared as the investigation progresses.