Father’s friend among three arrested over Karachi boy’s abduction

Karachi police have arrested all three suspects allegedly involved in the kidnapping of a child, Azan, from the Manghopir area, uncovering what investigators describe as a carefully planned ransom scheme allegedly masterminded by a close friend of the victim’s father.

According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, the prime suspect, Muhammad Ehtesham, was a trusted friend of the child’s father. 

Police investigators said that he planned the kidnapping out of financial greed with the help of his brother-in-law, Abdul Wahab, and another alleged accomplice, Iftikhar Ahmed, who was based in Gharo.

SSP West Tariq Ilahi Mastoi said the suspects had conducted surveillance of the family before the crime, arranged a fake number plate for the motorcycle used in the kidnapping, and abducted the child from outside his home on 18 July. 

Karachi Police said the child was initially taken to Jamshed Quarters before being moved to Gharo.

Investigators further said that, following the abduction, the suspects used a WhatsApp number operated from abroad to demand a ransom of Rs5 million from the child's family.

Police said that, acting on information provided by the arrested suspects, they recovered the motorcycle allegedly used in the kidnapping, the fake number plate, a helmet and other evidence believed to be linked to the case.

Authorities said the investigation is continuing and that further legal proceedings will be carried out in accordance with the findings of the inquiry.

Reporter: Shah Rukh Shah