Thousands of Pakistanis protest US verdict in case of scientist accused of shooting at troops

Pakistanis protest verdict in scientist’s case

ISLAMABAD — Pakistanis are protesting a Manhattan jury’s conviction of a Pakistani woman accused of trying to kill Americans while detained in Afghanistan.

The nationwide protests underscored the fierce passions surrounding the tale of Aafia Siddiqui.

The 37-year-old U.S.-educated neuroscientist went missing for five years until being picked up by Afghan police in 2008.

The U.S. claims she shot at American military personnel who came to interrogate her after her arrest.

But many Pakistanis believe the U.S. fabricated the charges. Some believe the Americans had long kept Siddiqui in a secret prison, allegations the U.S. denies.

Thursday’s protests drew thousands in cities across Pakistan. Pakistan’s government also has expressed dismay over the verdict.