ISLAMABAD — Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced a comprehensive support package for the families of three Pakistani nationals killed during a Somali operation to rescue hostages held by pirates, offering financial assistance, free education, healthcare and housing to the bereaved families.
Financial Assistance Announced
Each family of the three deceased Pakistanis will receive Rs12.5 million in government financial assistance, the prime minister said. The beneficiaries are the families of Syed Kashif Umar, Mahmood Ahmed Ansari and Rafiullah Khan, all of whom lost their lives during the recovery operation in Somalia.
In addition to the monetary compensation, the government will provide free education and healthcare facilities to the children of the deceased and a house for each bereaved family.
Prime Minister Offers Condolences
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif telephoned Azhan Kashif, son of Syed Kashif Umar, and expressed his heartfelt condolences over his father’s death. He said the government shared the grief of the bereaved families and prayed that Allah Almighty grant the deceased high ranks in paradise and give their families the strength to bear the loss.
The prime minister said the bereaved families would not be left alone during this difficult time and that the government would provide all possible assistance and support.
Directives Issued for Repatriation and Treatment
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and relevant institutions to accelerate efforts to repatriate the bodies of the deceased Pakistanis as soon as possible while maintaining continuous contact with Somali authorities and other parties.
He also instructed authorities to ensure the provision of the best possible medical treatment to Pakistanis injured in Somalia and to continue all possible efforts for the safe return of other Pakistani crew members.
Background of the Operation
Five people were killed during a Somali forces operation to rescue the crew of the vessel Honor 25, which had reportedly been held hostage for five months. Three Pakistani nationals were among those killed.
