A Pakistani commission investigating the U.S. raid that killed al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden says the terror leader's family may not be repatriated without its consent.

Three of bin Laden's wives and several children have been in Pakistani custody since the May 2 raid. Pakistani officials have said the wives — one from Yemen and two from Saudi Arabia — would be repatriated.

But the commission said late Tuesday it has told the country's interior ministry and Inter-Services Intelligence agency to ensure bin Laden's family member's are not sent home without its approval.

Officials had said in recent days the youngest wife could soon be sent back to Yemen.

The commission also said it will carry out a thorough and independent investigation of the raid.

Many Pakistani commissions face interference from the powerful military and intelligence service.