The family of kidnapped boy Sahil Saeed have suffered fresh anguish after hopes he had been found turned out to be a false alarm.

Reports from Pakistan yesterday suggested there had been a breakthrough in the search for the Oldham five-year-old.

Rushcroft primary pupil Sahil was snatched from his grandparent’s house by an armed gang five days ago, sparking an international search.

Hopes were raised yesterday when dad Raja and relatives raced from their home in Jhelum, Punjab, after receiving an urgent call.

But it is understood the false alarm came from a mix-up relating to information about another missing boy in the city.

A friend told the M.E.N: “An announcement was made over the PA system at the mosque during prayers at lunchtime.

“One of the father’s relatives heard this and thought it referred to Sahil. Sadly it turned out to be a false alarm, so they are still waiting for news.”

Raja and mum Akila live in a terraced house in Shaw, Oldham, and say they can’t afford to meet the gang’s £100,000 ransom.

Family friend Coun Fida Hussain added: “The family are already on tenterhooks waiting for news so for their hopes to be raised on false information only makes matters worse.”

Pakistani police, who have arrested eight people, continue to remain confident, yesterday repeating claims they would make a breakthrough within hours.

A number of authorities – including a Pakistani government minister – have repeated suggestions that a friend or close relative in Pakistan could have aided the gang.

But the allegation has been dismissed by both mum and dad.

Coun Hussain said: “I totally dismiss the comments made by the Pakistani High Commissioner that family members are involved. I find that hard to accept.

“I have spoken to the family and their biggest concern is to get Sahil back home safe. I’m confident as far as the British authorities are concerned that they are doing their utmost best.

“I do feel everyone is doing whatever they can but we will not give in to these kidnappers.

“A lot of people from Oldham travel out to Pakistan and people should not be put off by isolated incidents like this. This is not a common occurrence.

“My thoughts and prayers are with Sahil’s family at this difficult time.”