The three Hindu youths were identified as Shaman, Sajan and Shameer.

The dacoits reportedly intercepted them near Chowk Sawetra Basic Health Unit (BHU).

The kidnappers took them to Katcha area and later released a video message, reported Dawn News.

Ashiq Hussain Korai, a criminal, told Dawn News the Hindu youths were kidnapped because Ahmedpur Lama Station House Officer (SHO) Rana Ramzan had allegedly picked up his 10 family members, including his brother Allah Wasaya and some children and women.

He warned if the police did not release his relatives then all the kidnapped youths would be killed.

He said the police force would also be attacked.

The video clip also shows the barefooted, chained Hindu youths, appealing for their release, reported Dawn News.

Sources told the Pakistani newspaper that whenever police arrest relatives or family members of any dacoit, these criminals kidnap poor people, especially from minority communities.

The dacoits use the kidnapped persons to bargain with police for the release of their relatives, the source said.