Russian Citizen Allegedly Abducted in Northwest Pakistan

Russia's embassy in Pakistan is working to confirm reports of a Russian citizen's abduction in Pakistan's northwest. A militant group claims responsibility, sharing a photo of the alleged hostage. While insurgent attacks are common, Russians have not been previously targeted.

Russia's embassy in Pakistan has announced efforts to verify reports of a purported abduction involving one of its citizens in the country’s volatile northwest. The embassy made the statement via a post on the social media platform X, though further details were not disclosed.

The development follows claims by a small militant group led by commander Gul Bahadur, who alleged that they captured a Russian national in Dera Ismail Khan, a district within Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The group has released a photograph showing a man seated with two bearded individuals.

Local police assert they have not been contacted by the Russian Embassy regarding this reported abduction. While insurgents routinely target Pakistani security forces and foreign nationals, particularly Chinese working on major projects, Russians have not been frequent targets in these attacks. Most Russian visitors in Pakistan are mountain climbers exploring the scenic northern regions.

(With inputs from agencies.)