04/03/2010

British Boy Snatched In Pakistan

A child from Manchester is being held to ransom in Pakistan.

The five-year-old boy was snatched by robbers from a property in Jhelum, where his family had been holidaying.

Sahil Saeed's capturers have demanded a sum of £100,000 for his safe return.

Jhelum is in the Punjab area, and popular with wealthy tourists.

Sahil's father, Raja Naqqah Saeed, said the family had been visiting a sick relative.

Local police have launched an investigation and the British High Commission has offered its support.

A spokesman for the commission in Islamabad said: "A five-year-old boy has been kidnapped in Punjab, we think during a robbery.

"We are in touch with the family and the local authorities are currently investigating."

Mr Saeed said robbers stormed their residence last night, while the family was preparing to depart for their flight back to the UK.

Up to 10 relative were beaten and robbed of several valuables during the attack.

The four men, who were armed with guns, also made off with young Sahil.

They demanded £100,000 ransom, deferring further communication until 7am UK local time today.

As yet the kidnappers have failed to contact the family.

Mr Saeed has been based in the UK for about seven years.

(PR/NS)

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