Dua Zahra Abduction Case: A Cautionary Tale of Online Risks and Parental Vigilance
Islamabad:The abduction case of Dua Zahra, a Karachi-based girl, has garnered significant media attention in Pakistan due to its extraordinary nature. Dua Zahra went missing from her home in Korangi on April 16, 2022, when she was just 14 years old.
Following her disappearance, Dua’s father, Mehdi Kazmi, lodged a complaint leading to an investigation. Dua was recovered from Okara, Punjab, in May, during which it was discovered that she had reportedly married a young man named Zahid Ahmed.
In response to Dua’s alleged abduction, her courageous father, Mehdi Kazmi, fought relentlessly for her recovery. The case was brought before the Sindh High Court, which on July 28, 2022, ordered Dua Zahra to be placed in a government-run children’s protection and shelter home until the case’s resolution.
In January of the previous year, the Sindh High Court ordered that Dua Zahra be temporarily returned to her parents while the trial court decided on her permanent custody. Subsequently, Mehdi Kazmi also filed a petition in Karachi’s family court challenging the validity of the marriage.
**”It All Started with PUBG”**
Recently, Mehdi Kazmi appeared on a podcast where he detailed the events leading to his daughter’s abduction. He revealed that Dua had fallen into the clutches of her abductors through interactions on online games, specifically PUBG. Kazmi explained that he was unaware of the risks associated with such games until it was too late.
Kazmi recounted that he had heard disturbing voices while Dua was playing PUBG, which led him to stop her from playing the game. He expressed disbelief at how a game could be so dangerous and stressed the need for societal awareness and parental vigilance.
He highlighted that Dua had no phone but used a tablet for studies and gaming, which lacked SIM capabilities. Kazmi noted that modern apps have become so advanced that even parents struggle to understand their options and risks. He emphasized the need for safer alternatives for children.
Kazmi also mentioned that the abduction involved continuous surveillance of their home and neighborhood by the abductors, who encouraged Dua to leave her house, leading to her disappearance.
**Public and Legal Response**
Social media users, particularly parents, have praised Mehdi Kazmi’s bravery and expressed their best wishes for the family. Kazmi has been hailed as a hero for setting an example of parental dedication and protection.
Last month, Karachi’s family court ruled in favor of Mehdi Kazmi’s request for permanent custody of Dua Zahra, stating that she should remain with her parents until she reaches adulthood. The court’s decision was made with the child’s welfare in mind, ensuring that she stays with her biological parents.
The case underscores the growing need for awareness about online dangers and the importance of vigilant parenting in protecting children from potential harm.
