KTN News reporter Azeem Siyal, who had been missing since September 27, was safely recovered on September 29, Sindh Police announced.

Sindh Home Minister Zia-ul-Hasan Lanjar and Inspector General of Police (IG) Sindh Javed Alam Odho commended the police officers involved in the operation. Lanjar praised the coordinated efforts of the Deputy Inspector Generals (DIGs) of Larkana and Sukkur and the Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) of Ghotki, Sukkur and Shikarpur.

Siyal’s vehicle was earlier found abandoned near Sidoja in Sukkur district, prompting a police search operation

When Siyal went missing, his vehicle was found abandoned. Police seized the vehicle and launched an investigation into his disappearance; a police contingent was deployed in the area to assist in the search.

His disappearance also led journalists in Ghotki to stage a sit-in on the national highway, demanding his safe recovery and causing traffic disruptions between Sindh and Punjab. The protesters called on authorities to take immediate steps to locate Siyal and ensure his safe return.

In a video, Siyal said he believed he was abducted due to his 30 years of journalistic work. He alleged that a local feudal was unhappy with his reporting because he had written against them. Siyal said he overheard the alleged kidnappers discussing a ransom of PKR 15 million.