Man says he will offer Zamzam water, then throws acid on six in Lahore

LAHORE: A man allegedly threw acid on six people at a shop in Lahore’s Rang Mahal area after telling them he was about to offer them Zamzam water, police said on Wednesday.

According to investigators, the suspect arrived at the shop carrying two bottles inside a bag and addressed those present by saying, “I will now make you drink Zamzam.” Moments later, he allegedly hurled acid at the group before fleeing the scene.

The incident, which was captured on CCTV footage now circulating online, left six men injured and sparked panic in the area.

The victims were identified as Muhammad Munir, Waheed, Usman, Tahir, Nazim and Ashraf. All six were rushed to hospital for treatment immediately after the attack.

Police said the victims are out of danger. Two remain under medical care, while four have been discharged following initial treatment.

The attack prompted an immediate response from Lahore police. Acting on the directions of DIG Operations Lahore, SP City took notice of the incident and ordered the suspect's arrest.

Shortly afterwards, SHO Rang Mahal Farah Mushtaq arrested the suspect, identified as Rasheed.

According to preliminary investigations, the attack stemmed from a personal dispute linked to an altercation that allegedly took place five days earlier.

Police have initiated legal proceedings against the suspect and say further investigations are underway to determine the full circumstances surrounding the attack.

The detail that has unsettled many is not just the violence itself, but the specific words chosen to carry it out. Zamzam water — drawn from the sacred well in Mecca and carried home by pilgrims as a blessing — is among the most spiritually significant symbols in Islam. To invoke it as cover for an acid attack adds a layer of desecration to what was already a brutal act.