Centaurus Kidnapping Shocks Islamabad — 3-Year-Old Azlan Found Safe

📍 Islamabad | May 5, 2025
 Magazine Pakistan Desk

In a shocking incident that rattled parents and citizens across the capital, a three-year-old boy named Azlan was kidnapped from the bustling Centaurus Mall in Islamabad on May 4, 2025. The incident sparked widespread concern, bringing renewed focus to child safety in public spaces.

The Incident

According to initial reports, Azlan was at the mall with his family when he suddenly went missing. Panic ensued as his parents searched frantically through the busy shopping complex. The alarm was quickly raised with mall security and the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Police.

Within hours, the Safe City surveillance system was activated. CCTV footage revealed a woman leading the child away from a play area. The ICT Police acted swiftly, using a combination of technology and intelligence sources to trace and arrest the suspect. Azlan was recovered safely and reunited with his family.

The Suspect

The woman accused of the abduction has a known history of involvement in similar child kidnapping cases. Authorities confirmed that she was under observation by law enforcement and is now in custody pending further investigation.

A Swift Police Response

Azlan’s father, Faisal Ali Rana, praised the ICT Police for their immediate action and professionalism. “They acted like he was their own child. We’re beyond grateful,” he said in an emotional statement to the press.

The incident quickly went viral on social media, with thousands of concerned citizens sharing the child’s photo and updates using hashtags like #FindAzlan and #CentaurusAlert.

The Role of Zainab Alert

This case once again highlighted the importance of Pakistan’s Zainab Alert Response and Recovery Act. Enacted in 2020, it empowers authorities to take swift action in child abduction cases and has led to the creation of the ZARRA (Zainab Alert, Response, and Recovery Agency). The agency also operates the Zainab Alert App, enabling real-time reporting and alerts.

Alarming Stats

Despite improved systems, child abduction remains a serious issue in Pakistan. Between October 2021 and June 2022, over 1,200 cases of missing or abducted children were reported—Punjab being the most affected province.

A Wake-Up Call

The Centaurus case is a chilling reminder: a few seconds of distraction can change everything. While this story ended in relief, not every case does.

Let this serve as a reminder to all families:

 

• • Always keep your child within sight in public places.

• • Teach them who to approach for help.

• • Report suspicious behavior immediately.