Faisalabad, 30 July 2024: In a remarkable turn of events, Laiba Sohail, an eleven-year-old girl, has been recovered from her abductors in Faisalabad. The recovery was confirmed by Lala Robin Daniel, who, along with Kamran Adil, Central Police Officer (CPO) of Faisalabad, played a crucial role in the rescue operation.

On the night of 11 February 2024, at approximately 2 AM, Laiba was abducted from her home in Chak No. 233 RB Hari Singh Wala, Faisalabad. The perpetrators, Irfan and Khurram, forcibly entered the residence by scaling the walls while the family was asleep. Irfan, the primary suspect, is a 28-year-old married man with children, known for his criminal activities and unstable lifestyle.

Laiba’s father, Sohail Masih, aged 60, described the harrowing incident, highlighting that their Christian family had been living in a rented home near the suspects. Following the abduction, Laiba was handed over to Shaukat Shah, who forcibly converted her to Islam at a seminary. Fake documents were produced, falsely declaring Laiba to be 18 years old. On 15 February 2024, Shah submitted an application to the court of the area magistrate at D-Type Colony Police Station, Faisalabad, requesting that Laiba be sent to the Ghulam Muhammad Shelter Home, alleging she needed protection from her family.

Throughout her captivity, Laiba was moved frequently on Shah's orders. Her family, comprising her father Sohail Masih, mother Bilqees Bibi, and siblings Imran and Imrana (both married), were devastated. Laiba, their youngest child, was just 11 years old and the family relied on daily wages and selling milk from their livestock for survival.

After relentless efforts, Laiba was rescued and handed over to her family a week ago. For her safety, she is currently staying with close relatives. The rescue was a result of the tireless work of Lala Robin Daniel, a local human rights activist, and the special attention given by CPO Kamran Adil. Lala Robin Daniel emphasized that Laiba’s alleged marriage was proven to be fake and reiterated the importance of their ongoing struggle to protect vulnerable minors.

This case underscores the grave issue of forced conversions and abductions faced by minority communities in Pakistan. Authorities and activists continue to call for stronger measures to protect young girls from such exploitation.