French Woman and Five Children Rescued After Alleged 12 Years of Confinement in Pakistan

PESHAWAR: In a shocking case that has drawn international attention, Pakistani police have rescued a 54-year-old French woman and her five children from what authorities describe as more than a decade of alleged confinement in the Bara area of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.
 The woman, identified as Sylvie Yasmina, is reported to have married a Pakistani national, Ahmed Khan, in 2003. According to initial investigations, the family moved from Australia to Pakistan in 2014. Soon after their arrival, police allege that the woman and her children were confined inside a deteriorating house, where they remained isolated from the outside world for nearly 12 years.

Cut Off From the Outside World

Investigators said the family allegedly had no access to mobile phones, the internet, or regular contact with relatives and neighbors throughout the period of confinement. Family members in France reportedly lost contact with Sylvie and were unaware of her whereabouts.

Allegations of Abuse

After being rescued, Sylvie told investigators that her husband was physically abusive and frequently assaulted both her and the children. Police said visible bruises and injury marks were found on several family members during the rescue operation. Authorities are expected to conduct medical examinations as part of the ongoing investigation.

Children Deprived of Education

Police said two of the children had begun their education before the family moved to Pakistan but were unable to continue their schooling. Three younger children were born during the family’s stay in Pakistan and had reportedly never attended school. Officials also stated that one of the children has hearing and speech disabilities.

How the Rescue Happened

The case came to light after one of Sylvie’s sons reportedly managed to escape from the house and reached a nearby police station, where he informed officers about the family’s situation.

Acting on the information, police immediately raided the residence, rescued the woman and her children, and arrested the husband. A criminal investigation is now underway.

Safe Shelter and Consular Assistance

The rescued family has been relocated to a secure women’s shelter in Peshawar, where they are receiving protection and support. According to officials, Sylvie expressed gratitude to the Pakistani police for rescuing her family.

Authorities said the French Embassy is coordinating with Pakistani officials to facilitate the family’s return to France once the necessary legal and diplomatic formalities are completed.

The disturbing case has renewed discussions about domestic violence, child welfare, and the protection of human rights, highlighting the importance of timely intervention and international cooperation in safeguarding vulnerable families.