Good news: Ali Haider Gilani arrives in Lahore after three years in captivity

Ali Haider, who was kidnapped during an election rally in his hometown Multan on May 2, 2013, was recovered in an effective operation in Afghanistan on Tuesday.

Addressing the media, Ali Haider Gilani said, “I would like to thank the Afghan government and US forces for their efforts. It takes a lot of effort to bring back someone from another country.”

“I am looking forward to being reunited with my family and going back to my normal life,” he added.

Supporters and well wishers showered rose petals to welcome Ali Haider and gathered outside the Gilani home.

Before departing for Lahore, Ali Haider said he was “looking forward to being reunited with my family”, AFP reported.

“I really appreciate Afghan forces who fought for my recovery,” Gilani, who was bearded, clad in a white T-shirt and sporting a camouflage baseball cap, told officials at the ceremony in Kabul.