ISLAMABAD: Captured Indian Air Force Wing Commander Abhinandan Wednesday said the Pakistan Army treated him well following the arrest, adding that he will not change his statement if he goes back to his country.
The captured Indian Air Force pilot was seen speaking in a video clip, where he said that he wanted to bring this on record that he is being treated well. The Pakistan Army’s behaviour is quite professional and impressive, he added.
While responding to a question if he is being treated well in Pakistan, Abhinandan responded, “Yes, I have been. And I would like to put this on record that I will not change my statement if I go back to my country also.” He said the Pakistan Army officers have looked after him very well and that they were thorough gentlemen, starting from the captain who rescued him.
When asked where does he hail from, Abhinandan said he is from ‘down South’.
While responding to a question to describe the aircraft he was flying, the captured Indian pilot said, “I am sorry, I am not supposed to tell you this, but I am sure you have found the wreckage”. He also refused to answer when asked about the nature of his mission.
Abhinandan was seen in the video sipping tea from a cup and replying to questions. “The tea is fantastic, thank you,” he said in response to a question.
“I am married,” said the IAF pilot when inquired about some details of his personnel life.
Inter-Services Public Relations Director General Major General Asif Ghafoor ISPR said in a tweet that there is only one pilot in Pakistan Army’s custody and is being treated as per norms of military ethics. “There is only one pilot under Pakistan Army’s custody. Wing Comd Abhi Nandan is being treated as per norms of military ethics,” he tweeted.
Published in Daily Times, February 28th 2019.
