Terrorists Demand Ransom for Odisha Man Abducted in Mali
- Terrorists linked to al-Qaeda have kidnapped three Indian workers in Mali.
- The brother-in-law of P. Venkataraman claims the kidnappers are demanding ransom.
- Indian authorities are in continuous communication regarding the situation.
Families Struggling with Distress and Uncertainty of Abduction
The alarming situation surrounding P. Venkataraman, a resident of Odisha’s Ganjam district, has escalated as reports confirm that terrorists have taken him and two other Indian workers hostage in Mali, demanding ransom for their release. Venkataraman’s brother-in-law revealed that the group linked to al-Qaeda has instigated growing concern amongst the families of the abducted workers. They were kidnapped on July 1, while working at the Diamond Cement Factory, and the family has been in a state of distress since hearing from Venkataraman last on June 30, when he expressed concern over the presence of terrorists around the factory and warned that they were being restricted from leaving.
Confusion about Custody and Demands for Ransom
Initially, the company’s communications were misleading, claiming that the workers were in police custody after terrorists set fire to the facility. However, soon after contacting the company for clarification, the family was informed of the true situation, but they were advised to keep the matter a secret. The brother-in-law expressed frustration over the lack of adequate communication from both the embassy and local authorities. “We waited several days, during which I tried contacting the embassy for assistance and received no response, which has been disheartening. We urgently need the authorities to intervene and work towards bringing my brother-in-law back home safely,” he remarked, painful anticipation evident in his voice.
Ministry of External Affairs Works on Safe Rescue
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is deeply invested in this case, acknowledging the precarious situation. They have urged Malian authorities to act swiftly to ensure the safe return of the kidnapped workers. The MEA denounced the violent abduction as a deplorable act and has been in touch with the Indian embassy in Bamako, which is diligently coordinating with local authorities and maintaining contact with the families involved. In a formal statement, the MEA remarked on July 1 that various military and government locations in western and central Mali were attacked by militants, amplifying the security concerns for all foreign nationals in the region.
The abduction of P. Venkataraman and two other Indian workers poses serious concerns for their families and the Indian government. Initial misleading communications from their employer added to the confusion regarding their situation. With the MEA now involved, efforts to secure a safe resolution are underway, but the families remain anxious for their loved ones’ return amidst the ongoing threats in Mali.
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