Shoot-out survivor’s warning to tourists

Pakistan beautiful but dangerous, says Akhtar

OLDHAM business man Akhtar Zahid, who survived an extortion attempt and dramatic shoot-out in Pakistan, is home safe to tell the tale.

But the 66 year old, of School House Road - who had gone to Malka to build a new house when 500,000 rupees (£33,500) was demanded of him — is warning Oldhamers to be cautious when visiting his homeland.

Mr Zahid was threatened by a well-known terrorist. Mr Zahid and his brothers were able to stall the criminal while police supplied 100,000 rupees and watched the handover.

The episode ended in a gun battle with the chief kidnapper shot dead and his accomplice in hiding.

Mr Ahktar, a former treasurer of the Asian Business Association and owner of A and S Motor Factors in Chadderton, said: “Pakistan is a beautiful country but the law and order over there is not right at all.

“While I was there I had so many calls from people in Oldham to check that I was okay and for that I am very grateful — thank you to them all.”