In a chilling incident that exposes the dark underbelly of illegal migration, four Gujarati men found themselves trapped in a nightmare scenario in Tehran, Iran. The young men, all hailing from different districts of Gujarat, had embarked on what they hoped would be a journey to better opportunities in Australia.
The harrowing ordeal began when the group, following an illegal migration route, reached Tehran in early May. Little did they know that their quest for a new life would turn into a fight for survival.
The Abduction
According to family members and official sources, the four men were allegedly abducted by a group posing as agents who promised to facilitate their journey to Australia. Instead, they were held captive in an unknown location in Tehran and subjected to psychological torture.
The kidnappers made ransom demands ranging from ₹80 lakh to ₹1 crore per person, threatening dire consequences if the payments weren't made. Families back in Gujarat received frantic calls from their loved ones pleading for help.
Desperate Families Seek Help
When the news reached Gujarat, panic-stricken family members approached local authorities and political representatives. One family from Botad district revealed they had already paid approximately ₹15 lakh to the traffickers before learning about the abduction.
"We sold our land and borrowed money, thinking it would secure our son's future. Now we don't know if he's safe or even alive," said a distraught father who wished to remain anonymous.
Official Response
The case has prompted action from multiple agencies. The Ministry of External Affairs has been alerted, and Indian authorities are working through diplomatic channels to secure the men's release.
Local police in Gujarat have registered complaints and are coordinating with central agencies. This incident highlights the growing concern about illegal migration networks preying on vulnerable youth seeking opportunities abroad.
A Warning to Aspiring Migrants
This terrifying episode serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with illegal migration routes. Authorities emphasize that proper channels and verified agents are the only safe way to pursue international opportunities.
The four men remain in captivity as efforts continue to secure their safe return to India, their dreams of Australia replaced by prayers for survival.
