Seventy-five-year-old diamond businessman Dhiru Ramani, originally from Surat, has been released nearly three months after he was kidnapped in the West African country of Mali. His release came after his family reportedly paid a ransom of around €4 million.
Along with Ramani, two other Indian nationals—a cook and an electrician—who were also taken hostage have been freed.
According to family members, Ramani was brought to Bamako, the capital of Mali, following his release. He underwent preliminary medical examinations and was found to be in stable condition. A relative confirmed that he is safe and recovering.
Kidnappers Contacted Family After Two Months
Family members said the kidnapping took place about three months ago while Ramani was in Mali. However, the abductors did not contact the family immediately.
According to relatives, militant groups involved in such kidnappings often wait before reaching out. They reportedly delay negotiations until they are sure the hostage is in their custody and the family has lost hope of finding them quickly.
The family was contacted nearly two months after the kidnapping, when ransom negotiations finally began.
Initial Demand Was Much Higher
The kidnappers initially demanded €10 million, which is approximately ₹100 crore, for Ramani’s release.
Over the last ten days, discussions between the family and the kidnappers became more intense. Eventually, the family agreed to pay a part of the original demand. After verifying that Ramani was alive and safe through a video call, the ransom was reportedly paid, leading to his release.
A relative said the family wanted complete confirmation of his well-being before making any payment.
Hostage Remained in Good Health
Despite being held captive for several months, Ramani remained in good health during his captivity, according to his relatives.
They also said that the cook who was kidnapped along with him was allowed regular access to food, which helped ensure his well-being while in captivity.
The family expressed relief after the safe return of all three Indian nationals.
Rising Security Concerns in Mali
The incident has once again highlighted the growing security concerns in Mali, where militant groups have increasingly targeted foreign nationals in recent years.
According to Ramani’s relatives, several incidents involving the kidnapping of international professionals, including Indian and Chinese nationals, have been reported in the country. Armed groups often target people working in important economic sectors, making such incidents a serious concern for businesses operating there.
Ramani Had Entered Gold Mining Business
Originally from Dhari village in Gujarat’s Amreli district, Ramani later settled in the United States, where his family expanded its business from natural diamonds into laboratory-grown diamonds and jewellery.
Around two years ago, as part of business diversification, Ramani entered the gold mining sector. He began exploring mining operations in Mali and was reportedly supervising one of the mining projects when unidentified armed men abducted him nearly three months ago.
Family Plans His Return to the US
Following his release, Ramani is expected to travel to the United States, where his family has been based for several years. His safe return has brought relief to his relatives after months of uncertainty, negotiations, and concern over his well-being.
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