Twelve Pakistani youths who reportedly attempted to travel abroad through an illegal migration route, commonly known as “Dunki,” have gone missing, according to reports on Tuesday.
Seven of the missing youths belong to Paseen village, which is located near Jallo Morr in Lahore. Among these people are three cousins, Dilshad, Osama and Waqas as well.
According to the families, a local agent identified as Amir allegedly took millions of rupees from the youths after promising to take them abroad.
The families said that the young men last contacted them after reaching Iran, after which all communication suddenly stopped.
Relatives said that they are now receiving ransom demands from Waqas’s phone. They also claimed the agent sent them distressing videos showing three of the missing youths.
According to the families, the videos show the young men with iron chains around their necks. According to the reports, they can be seen pleading with tears for their relatives to send money for their release.
The families said that the agent, Amir, is also a resident of their area. They claimed they had already paid him Rs1 million per person before the journey.
The alleged kidnappers are now demanding an additional $6,000, which is approximately more than Rs1.6 million per person in ransom. According to the reports, they have also threatened serious consequences if the money is not paid.
The families have filed a complaint with Pakistan’s Federal Investigation Agency (FIA). They have also appealed to the government to help recover the missing youths safely.
FIA begins investigation
According to the latest update, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has started an investigation into the disappearance of 12 young Pakistanis in Iran.
According to reports, the FIA’s Anti-Human Trafficking Circle in Lahore has registered a case. A special investigation team has also been formed, as per the reports.
The FIA said operations are being launched to arrest the suspected agent linked to the case.
An FIA spokesperson said the agency will also contact the relevant authorities in other countries. All available resources will be used to help recover the missing young men.
Pakistani businessman Khurram Shehzad kidnapped
Previously, a Pakistani businessman named Khurram Shehzad was kidnapped by some armed men in Pretoria, South Africa.
According to the reports, the incident took place on the evening of Saturday, July 4, in the Hercules area.
The local police have filed the case and have initiated their investigation. According to the media reports, the case has been filed under Case No. 41/07/2026.
