Over 350 Pakistanis languishing in US jails

islamabad — More than 350 Pakistanis are languishing in US jails under allegations of various offences, ranging from terrorism to violation of immigration laws, revealed a document issued by the Foreign Ministry in response to questions by a senator, reports Dawn online.

According to the documents, 104 Pakistani citizens were serving prison sentences whereas 253 Pakistanis are under trial.

Majority of the prisoners were in jail for violation of immigration laws while others were accused of terrorism, theft, burglary and fraud.

Dr Aafia Siddiqui, a Pakistani scientist, was sentenced to prison in 2007 for attacking US soldiers.

Khalid Awan was facing imprisonment since 2006 for assisting an Indian terrorist organisation, Shehwar Mateen and Abdul Naseer were imprisoned for allegedly planting a bomb, revealed the report.

The ministry presented a list of the prisoners, along with the nature of allegations levelled against them.

The report clarified that as soon as diplomatic missions are informed about the arrest of a Pakistani national, immediate consular access is requested and the relevant mission remains in contact with the national in prison and detention centres.

The ministry also claimed that regular consular visits are also arranged, adding that the missions also provide possible legal assistance, if requested.