PM Announces Financial Assistance For Families Of Pakistanis Killed In Somalia Ship Hijack
ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 2nd Oct, 2026)
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif spoke by telephone with Azhan Kashif, son of the Pakistani national Kashif Umar who lost his life in Somalia. The Prime Minister expressed heartfelt condolences to Azhan Kashif over the passing of his father, Syed Kashif Umar.
"We fully share in your grief," he said, adding, "May Allah Almighty grant him a high place in Paradise and give your family the strength to bear this shock."
He assured the families that the government will bring the mortal remains of his father and the other two deceased Pakistanis back to Pakistan as soon as possible. Directives were issued to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and all other relevant institutions to maintain direct contact with the families of Kashif Umar and the other two deceased individuals at every stage.
Kashif Umar was among the three Pakistanis who lost their lives during the rescue operation of a hijacked ship in Somalia.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif announced:
- Financial assistance of Rs 12.5 million for each of the families of the Pakistani citizens who lost their lives.
- Free education and healthcare facilities for the children of the deceased Pakistanis.
- Provision of a house to each affected family.
He emphasized that the bereaved families would not be left alone during this difficult time and that the government would provide all possible support and assistance. He directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Pakistan Embassy to expedite the process of repatriating the bodies to Pakistan while maintaining constant contact with Somali authorities and other relevant stakeholders.
He also instructed that all possible measures be taken to provide the best medical care for the injured Pakistanis and ensure their safe return.