Around 56 Pakistani prisoners who had been jailed in Sri Lanka for several years have finally returned home.
This repatriation was made possible due to the efforts of Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Federal Minister for Privatization Abdul Aleem Khan.
The group, which included five female and 51 male prisoners, arrived back in Pakistan via a specially chartered aircraft. The emotional return to their country brought tears of joy to the eyes of the prisoners, many of whom had long awaited this moment.
Upon their return, the freed individuals expressed deep gratitude to both ministers, offering prayers for them.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi played a pivotal role in this process, personally intervening to ensure the repatriation of the Pakistani prisoners. He raised the issue with the Sri Lankan high commissioner, leading to the successful negotiation of their return. Abdul Aleem Khan, meanwhile, generously covered all the expenses for the chartered flight and other repatriation costs.
Speaking on the occasion, Mohsin Naqvi appreciated the Sri Lankan government and its high commissioner for their cooperation in facilitating the release and return of the prisoners. He also extended special thanks to Abdul Aleem Khan for his financial contribution, without which the repatriation would not have been possible.
The returning prisoners, visibly moved, shared their immense relief and happiness upon reaching Pakistan. "Thanks to Mohsin Naqvi and Abdul Aleem Khan, we have finally returned home. We cannot forget this kindness for the rest of our lives," said one of the former prisoners, adding that they were thankful for their return considering the conditions under which they had been imprisoned.
An elderly woman expressed similar sentiments, calling the act an unforgettable favour.