SNP councillor’s family among Pakistan dead

A SCOTTISH councillor has lost two members of his family in the attack on a school in Pakistan.

Jahangir Hanif: Nephew's sons among dead in Pakistan Taleban massacre. Picture: Greg Macvean

Two nephews of Jahangir Hanif, an SNP councillor for the Southside Central ward in Glasgow, have both lost a son in Tuesday’s attack in the city of Peshawar.

It claimed the lives of at least 140 people, mostly children, and left scores injured.

Politicians and campaigners across the globe have criticised the Pakistani Taliban, which claimed responsibility for the attack at the Army Public School.

It is understood Mr Hanif is on his way to Pakistan to be with his family.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “I am deeply saddened by this devastating news. My thoughts and deepest condolences are with Councillor Hanif and his family at what is a time of terrible sadness.

“I have been in touch with the Hanif family to express my condolences and we understand Councillor Hanif is now on his way to Pakistan to be with his family. It is now right that the family is given the space they need to grieve for the loss of their much loved children.

“Yesterday’s horrific events in Peshawar stole the lives of 132 innocent school children and nine staff. These senseless killings defy any explanation.

“Scotland stands with the people of Pakistan as they try come to terms with these tragic events and they - together with the Pakistani community here in Scotland - have our full support as they seek to move forward.”

Other politicians expressed their condolences on Twitter.

SNP MSP Humza Yousaf, Minister for Europe and International Development, tweeted: “Heartbroken that Cllr Hanif lost family in yday’s cowardly attack in Peshawar” while SNP MP Angus Robertson wrote: “So sad to learn that relatives of @theSNP Glasgow councillor Jahangir Hanif were killed in the Peshawar massacre.”

Scottish Tory leader Ruth Davidson tweeted: “So sorry to hear Cllr Hanif has lost relatives in yesterday’s senseless attack in Peshawar. My thoughts are with his family.”

SEE ALSO

• Pakistan hearts not in cricket after Taleban outrage

• 132 children slaughtered by Taleban in Pakistan

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