BSF jawan Purnam Shaw held captive by Pakistan Rangers released

Purnam Kumar Shaw was in custody of Pakistan Rangers since April 23

The Pakistan Rangers on Wednesday released Border Security Force (BSF) jawan Purnam Shaw, who was held in captivity for several days after he crossed the international border in Punjab's Ferozepur district, News18 has reported.

Shaw had strayed across the border a day after April 22 Pahalgam attack, which left 26 people dead.

According to reports, India has also released a Pakistani Ranger who were held captive during tensions between the two countries.

The constable was handed over to the Border Security Force (BSF) by Pakistan Rangers at 10:30 am. The handover was conducted peacefully and in accordance with established protocols, a BSF spokesperson said.

Shaw's family members expressed immense relief and gratitude to the central government and BSF authorities for securing his return.

The constable hails from Rishra in West Bengal’s Hooghly district.

“We are very happy today. We thank the central government and the BSF authorities for their efforts in safely bringing him back. The past two weeks have been filled with sleepless nights and uncertainty for us. We were constantly worried about his well-being,” a family member of Shaw told reporters.

“We are now eagerly waiting to speak to him and see him in person. Our prayers have finally been answered,” he said.

(With inputs from PTI)