A German tourist was attacked and robbed near Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore, according to police reports on Saturday.
Berg Florian, a 27-year-old German national, arrived in Pakistan on a bicycle and was camping near the airport when the incident occurred. Florian was asleep at the time of the attack.
In a tearful video, Florian described how he was assaulted by two armed men who tortured him, stole his mobile phone, cash, and a camera valued at Rs500,000, and then fled the scene.
Superintendent of Police (SP) Cantt Owais Shafiq stated that an investigation has begun based on Florian’s complaint. Police are currently reviewing CCTV footage and other evidence from the airport and surrounding areas to locate the suspects.
The police have filed a First Information Report (FIR) under Section 382 of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC), which pertains to theft involving preparation for causing harm or restraint.
In his report, Florian detailed that he was “visiting Pakistan on my bicycle and set up my tent on the night of August 2, 2024, to August 3, 2024, on a piece of meadow near the street.” At approximately 1:30 am, Florian said two men approached his tent and demanded cash. When he replied that he had none, they began searching his bags.
Florian recounted that the men found his backpack containing valuable electronics and attempted to steal it. As he tried to escape, one of the men caught him, choked him briefly, and punched him. Florian dropped the backpack, allowing the suspects to take his camera ($2,000), AirPods ($3,000), iPhone ($500), Rs5,000 in cash, and a power bank.
The second suspect took the phone and AirPods, but Florian was unable to pursue them due to a knee injury sustained from the assault. He described the suspects as one wearing white clothing and the other in black, with one having a prominent chin. Both were approximately 175-180 cm tall, aged 25-32, had dark skin, and beards.
Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Operations Muhammad Faisal Kamran has taken notice of the case and requested a report from SP Shafiq. He has instructed the police to apprehend the suspects and assured that they will face justice.
DIG Kamran emphasized that strict action will be taken against those who tarnish the country’s reputation. Florian, who is on a 30-day visit visa, is scheduled to stay in Pakistan until September 11.
