The district and sessions judge of South Waziristan, Shakirullah Marwat, who was kidnapped and had appealed for his release, has been safely recovered, confirmed the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD).
Marwat’s safe return came late Sunday night, with the CTD stating that he reached home unconditionally, assuring his well-being after the harrowing ordeal. Marwat’s abduction sparked concern after a video statement from him surfaced, revealing his dire circumstances. In the video, Marwat pleaded for the acceptance of his captors’ demands, emphasizing that his release hinged upon their satisfaction. He urged government and judicial authorities to ensure his swift recovery by meeting the Taliban’s stipulations.
The abduction unfolded when Marwat and his driver were ambushed by armed individuals while en route from Tank to Dera Ismail Khan. According to the driver’s account filed in an FIR with the CTD, the assailants intercepted their vehicle, opening fire and forcibly taking control of the judge’s car. Marwat was then transported to a remote forested area after the vehicle was set ablaze.
In response to the incident, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Bar Council condemned the abduction, denouncing it as an assault on the judicial system. The council expressed concerns over the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies in ensuring the safety of judges and citizens alike.
Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur reacted to the abduction, directing the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to take immediate action for Marwat’s safe recovery. A joint investigation team comprising CTD officials from D.I. Khan and Tank was formed to expedite the recovery process, ensuring the judge’s safety without any loss of life or property during the operation.
