Dozens of Pakistani students injured in Kyrgyzstan mob attack

Several Pakistani students were injured on Friday evening after a mob of local residents attacked their hostels in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. The violence reportedly erupted following a brawl between Kyrgyz students and Egyptian nationals.

Disturbing videos and images surfaced on social media, showing Pakistani students pleading for help from the Pakistani government and describing the situation as dangerous and threatening. 

The Pakistani embassy in Kyrgyzstan confirmed the attacks, stating that dozens of Pakistani students sustained injuries during the riots.

Pakistan's Ambassador in Bishkek, Hasan Zaigham took to ‘X’ to assure the public that the embassy is collaborating with local law enforcement to ensure the safety of Pakistani students.

"We are liaising with the local law enforcement authorities to ensure safety of out student fraternity," his post read. 

Pakistan's Foreign Office also released emergency contact information for its students in Kyrgyzstan and advised students to stay indoors until the situation stabilizes.

Students reported that the mob, armed with knives and weapons, targeted everyone in the hostels, including female students.

As per reports, a brawl erupted on May 13th when Kyrgyz students allegedly harassed female Egyptian students. 

Videos of the altercation between the two groups circulated on social media. Kyrgyz authorities reportedly detained three foreigners for hooliganism in response to the incident.

However, the situation escalated on Friday, with a large group of Kyrgyz citizens taking to the streets to protest the leniency shown towards foreigners by the local authorities. 

This mob then attacked medical universities and residences of international students, including those from Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep concern over the violence in Bishkek and directed Pakistan's Ambassador in Kyrgyzstan to provide all necessary assistance to the affected Pakistani students.

"Deeply concerned over the situation of Pakistani students in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. I have directed Pakistan's Ambassador to provide all necessary help and assistance. My office is also in touch with the Embassy and constantly monitoring the situation," the premier stated on 'X'.