Six abducted Pakistanis freed in Turkey

Foreign Office says Pakistani consulate is in contact with Turkish police, seeking access to the rescued victims

ISLAMABAD: Turkish police recovered six Pakistani expatriates on Wednesday who were said to be abducted by human smugglers for ransom in Istanbul.

“The Turkish police authorities have confirmed to the Consulate General of Pakistan in Istanbul that after necessary action today, they have rescued six Pakistanis,” said a statement issued by the Foreign Office in Islamabad.

Those who have been recovered include Fazal Amin, Adil Ahmad, Muhammad Zeeshan, Abid, Usman Ali and Ashbar Ahmad.

“The Turkish authorities are now completing the legal formalities to deal with the case,” the communiqué read.

The Foreign Office further said that the Pakistani consulate was in constant contact with the Turkish police and sought access to the rescued victims. “We express our gratitude to the Turkish government and the relevant authorities for their timely action and cooperation in the matter.”