Lt. Col. Khalid Ameer and three relatives who were kidnapped earlier this week by the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), also known as “Fitna al-Khawarij,” have been safely and unconditionally released, according to a statement from the military’s media wing on Saturday.
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed their release in a statement, highlighting the crucial role played by tribal elders and local dignitaries in negotiating their freedom. The statement assured that all the hostages have returned home safely.
The abduction took place on Wednesday evening in Dera Ismail Khan, a district heavily affected by militancy. Lt. Col. Khalid Ameer, Assistant Commissioner Asif Ameer, and their relatives—Fahad Ameer and a nephew—were kidnapped while attending their father’s funeral. During their time in captivity, the abductors released two separate videos showing the hostages making emotional appeals to the government to meet their demands.
The successful resolution of this case was largely attributed to the concerted efforts of local community leaders who worked tirelessly to secure the hostages’ release. The ISPR’s statement praised these efforts and confirmed that all abductees have been reunited with their families.
