Pak issues security alert following execution of former Punjab Governor Salman Tasser's killer

Pakistan has stepped up security in the garrison town of Rawalpindi and in other parts following the early morning execution of Mumtaz Qadri, the assassinator of former Punjab Province Governor Salman Taseer.

Qadri was executed at the Adiala Jail this morning, reports the Dawn.

A former police commando, Qadri had assassinated Taseer in Islamabad's Kohsar Market on January 4, 2011 for his support to a blasphemy accused.

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An Anti-Terrorism Court convicted and condemned him to death, a ruling also upheld by the Islamabad High Court and the Supreme Court.

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A review petition of Qadri was also turned down by the top court on December 14 last year, leaving him with the last option to file a clemency appeal to the president.

Qadri's body was being displayed to his supporters at his family's home in the city, where the Pakistan Rangers and police in riot gear as well as ambulances and dozens of police vehicles were stationed.

Armed Rangers could also be seen on the roof of the building housing Qadri's residence, while authorities blocked some roads in the neighbourhood.

Cries were heard from inside the house as hundreds of men and women gathered, and mosques could be heard broadcasting news of the execution.