An American woman, who traveled to Karachi to meet her online boyfriend, is now refusing to return home after being stranded in the city. The woman, identified as 27-year-old Jessica Collins from Chicago, arrived in Karachi last week to meet a man she had been romantically involved with for over a year through online messaging and video calls.
However, soon after her arrival, the situation took an unexpected turn. Jessica claims her relationship with her online boyfriend, whom she refers to as “Ahmed,” took a strange turn when he became hostile and began restricting her movements. Despite being advised to return home, Jessica insists on staying in Karachi, stating that she has found a “sense of belonging” in the city and doesn’t want to leave.
“I felt a connection with Ahmed, and now that I’m here, I don’t feel like going back,” Jessica explained in an interview with local media. “I’ve never felt more alive and free. I know people are concerned, but I’m okay.”
Jessica’s family, however, is deeply worried about her safety and well-being. They have been in touch with U.S. embassy officials, seeking assistance to bring her back home. “We just want her to come back safely,” said her mother, Janet Collins. “We don’t understand why she would stay in a situation like this, especially when she’s in a foreign country.”
Local authorities have been contacted to ensure Jessica’s safety, but as of now, there is no immediate plan to force her return. Pakistani officials say they are respecting her autonomy, but they are continuing to monitor the situation closely.
Experts warn that online relationships can sometimes be deceptive and pose serious risks. Many have urged caution when forming emotional connections over the internet and traveling to meet people without knowing them in person.
For now, Jessica remains in Karachi, navigating the complexities of her decisions and the attention surrounding her unusual situation.
