KARACHI: Actor Bushra Ansari has joined calls for the rescue and safe return of Pakistani mariners who have reportedly been held hostage by Somali pirates since April 21. In a video shared on Instagram, Ansari expressed concern for the sailors and their families, saying she had been following reports of their captivity for nearly two months.
Ansari's Appeal
"I've been hearing for about two months now that Somali pirates had captured our compatriots along with some Indians and Bangladeshis. These men who left their homes to work hard for their families are in dire straits," she said. The actor said she had assumed efforts were underway to secure their release and believed the matter would have been resolved by now.
"I thought they must have been rescued by now. Obviously, all their countries must be making efforts for their safe return, but how do we actually save their lives? Their children, their families are so worried," she added.
Conditions of Captivity
Ansari said videos circulating online had highlighted the difficult conditions in which the hostages were being held. Referring to footage she had seen, she questioned whether the sailors had access to clean drinking water and basic facilities. She also voiced concern about their ability to remain in contact with loved ones, saying she was unsure whether they even had the means to charge their phones.
"Please, take this seriously. It's a matter of life or death, I was under the impression this had been resolved, but then I saw a clip of this little girl who was missing her dad, my heart hurts so much," she said.
A Call for Action
Ansari stressed that the men had gone to sea to earn a living for their families and should not be forgotten. She urged authorities and the public to intensify efforts for their safe recovery.
