KARACHI: In another cross-border love story that ended in heartbreak, a 19-year-old Tunisian woman has sought shelter at a women police station in Karachi following a failed marriage to a Pakistani man she met on social media.
According to police sources, Sanda Ayari, a resident of Tunis, the capital of Tunisia, arrived in Karachi on November 28, 2024, after developing a relationship with Mohammad Amir, a resident of Khadda Market, Lyari. The two reportedly fell in love on social media and decided to get married, prompting Sanda to obtain a Pakistani visa and travel to Karachi.
Upon arrival at Karachi airport, she was received by Amir and his family. The very next day, Amir’s family held a small ceremony and the couple was married. Their nikah was officially registered on March 6 at Union Council Baghdadi, Lyari.
Initially, the couple enjoyed a happy marriage. However, Sanda told police that over the past few months, tensions began to arise over minor issues. Eventually, Amir divorced her.
Now seeking to return home, Sanda faces several challenges. Her 90-day visa expired on February 18, and she cannot leave the country without a visa renewal or exit permit. In addition, she is burdened with the cost of visa renewal ($400) and over Rs250,000 for a return airline ticket.
Police officials at the women’s police station confirmed that Sanda has not lodged any complaint of mistreatment against her ex-husband. She has been provided temporary shelter.
The police had summoned Amir to the station, where he confirmed he had divorced Sanda before leaving. Efforts to contact him again have been unsuccessful, as his mobile phone is now switched off.
This case follows closely on the heels of a similar international love story involving an American woman, Onija Andrew Robinson that also ended in disappointment in Pakistan.
