MANSEHRA: The Balakot police on Wednesday arrested an Afghan national for attempting to kidnap a first-grade schoolgirl.

“Police personnel followed the kidnapper and arrested him while he was trying to flee through less-frequented routes,” DSP Saddaqat Nisar told a news conference in Balakot.

He said the girl was on the way to her school in the morning when the Afghan national, Abdul Qadeer, tried to “lure” her away, but she cried for help, prompting him to flee.

“The girl’s mother and neighbours immediately approached the police and lodged an FIR against the kidnapper,” he said.

Probe reveals detainee wanted for several criminal activities

The DSPsaid that a police team, led by SHO of the Balakot Police Station Fahad Shah, launched a search operation after the city’s entry and exit points were sealed, and apprehended the suspect from the Shawal area within two hours.

“The police cordoned off the entire area and checked both public and private vehicles leaving Balakot,” he said.

Mr Nisar said a preliminary investigation revealed that the detainee lived in the Pakhwal area of Mansehra district and was wanted for several criminal activities.

He urged residents to remain vigilant, especially about the safety of their children when they go to school or play on the streets.

Meanwhile, the police have arrested Mohammad Iqbal alias Bala Gujjar, wanted in dozens of cases of murder, attempted murder and kidnapping for extortion.

A police team raided a house hereon a tip-off and arrested the outlaw.

The police said the detainee remained in custody in the past, too, in extortion cases.

Source: DAWN