RAHIM YAR KHAN: Two drumbeaters from Liaqatpur’s Mauza Kotla Nawab were allegedly kidnapped by dacoits through honey-trap during the last week of October and they are missing so far.

Their families and relatives held a protest outside the Liaqatpur Press Club on Monday, revealing to journalists that the kidnappers are demanding Rs5 million for their safe return.

Reports suggest Muhammad Akram alias Mithoo and Imtiaz Ahmed, both residents of Pakka Laraan’s police jurisdiction, were invited to perform at a wedding on Oct 25, 2024. The two left home with their drums and cell phones, not disclosing their destination. Relatives stated that the dacoits later used Mithoo’s phone to contact them, demanding a ransom of Rs5m.

The families contacted Pakka Laraan police, but they alleged the police did not initially cooperate. Only after the family’s protest, the authorities registered a case.

A police spokesperson told Dawn that Mithoo and Imtiaz had established contact with an unknown man in their area, believed to be a desi ghee seller, who allegedly led them into the trap. The spokesperson added that both men traveled to Sindh willingly, where they fell victim to the honey trap.

Police have registered an FIR.

Published in Dawn, November 6th, 2024