Asma Jattak, who was abducted from her home in Khuzdar, Balochistan, has been rescued following days of protests by her family and community. The rescue operation, conducted by Balochistan authorities and intelligence agencies, ended a tense standoff that began after Asma’s abduction on January 4.

Asma, in an emotional address to the protestors after her release, recounted her ordeal. She stated that armed men stormed her family home at 2:00 AM, assaulting her family before abducting her. She described being blindfolded, choked, and forcibly placed in the back of a vehicle, eventually losing consciousness due to the violence.

Asma further explained that she was held captive in a secluded location and forced to give a coerced statement under duress, threatened with the murder of her father and brothers if she refused to comply. She revealed she had gone without food or water for three days and was forced to falsely claim a relationship with her abductors in court.

The abduction sparked immediate protests. Asma’s family blocked the N-25 highway at two locations, halting traffic and demanding her safe return. Despite negotiations between the protestors and Khuzdar police, led by SSP Javed Zehri, no progress was made.

A suspect was apprehended during the police and Levies force operation that led to Asma’s rescue, according to Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind. A case has been registered against the main accused, Zohur Ahmed, and his accomplices.

The situation was further complicated by the emergence of a video showing Asma and Zohur Ahmed, in which Asma claimed she had left home willingly. However, Asma’s sister released a counter-video refuting this claim and criticizing the government and authorities.

Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Siraf Raz Bugti’s direct intervention led to a two-night operation involving Khuzdar and Sorab police and Levies forces. Sixteen suspects were arrested, and Asma was successfully rescued. The government credited relentless efforts and collaboration between various agencies for the successful outcome.