16-Year Ordeal Ends: Mohammad Masroof's Journey Home

Pakistani national Mohammad Masroof, held in India for 16 years on immigration violations, is set to return home. Acquitted of espionage charges, he will be released from Gorakhpur Jail on February 7, 2024. Authorities are finalizing arrangements for his transfer to Pakistan, reuniting him with family.

Pakistani national Mohammad Masroof, also known as Mansoor Ahmed, is set to return home after serving 16 years in Gorakhpur District Jail, India. His release is scheduled for February 7, marking the end of a long legal and emotional journey.

Masroof was apprehended in 2008 near the India-Nepal border in Uttar Pradesh for entering India without valid travel documents. Initially charged with espionage, he was later acquitted of these charges by the Allahabad High Court, leaving only immigration violations on his record.

The Union Home Ministry has issued a release order, and with the Ministry of External Affairs' No Objection Certificate in place, officials are coordinating his transfer to the Attari border for repatriation. Masroof is reportedly in good spirits, eagerly anticipating his reunion with family in Pakistan.

(With inputs from agencies.)