ATTOCK: In a dramatic turn of events, the Attock police successfully rescued Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) lawyer Intizar Punjutha, who had been missing since October.
According to the officials, the police intercepted a suspicious vehicle on GT Road in Attock. The vehicle initially refused to stop, leading to a brief standoff.
The kidnappers eventually fled, abandoning their vehicle and hostage. Intizar Punjutha, a senior lawyer who has represented PTI in various cases, was found visibly unwell and has been hospitalized for medical treatment.
The recovery comes after a petition was filed with the Islamabad High Court (IHC) for Punjutha’s safe return. During a hearing on November 1, the Additional Advocate General assured the court that Punjutha would be rescued by Saturday.
An investigation led by the Islamabad IG revealed that three SIM cards were registered in Punjutha’s name, with one showing a location in Peshawar.
The police chief reported that eight SMS messages were received, and two were sent from the Peshawar-registered SIM, which was activated on December 10. The court inquired about accessing the Peshawar location, and the IG Islamabad stated that the SIM was not used for internet purposes.
Additionally, the authorities have requested that the FIA and CTD Punjab provide the WhatsApp IP address.
With Punjutha’s safe recovery, the police now focus on apprehending the culprits. The successful rescue operation brings relief to the PTI and Punjutha’s family, who had been anxiously awaiting his return.