Surat: Seventy-five-year-old diamond businessman Dhiru Ramani, who was allegedly abducted in the West African nation of Mali nearly three months ago, was freed early Thursday after his family reportedly paid a ransom of about 4 million euros.Two other Indian hostages — a cook and an electrician — were also released.Ramani was brought to the Malian capital, Bamako, by his family members after his release. He underwent preliminary medical examinations and was found to be in stable condition, a relative told TOI.According to family members, who requested not to be named, the kidnapping took place around three months ago, but the abductors did not contact the family for nearly two months. Ransom calls began only later, with the kidnappers initially demanding 10 million euros (around Rs 100 crore). Negotiations intensified over the past 10 days and culminated on Wednesday after the family agreed to pay part of the original demand.“The family first verified Ramani’s condition through a video call. Once they were satisfied that he was safe, the ransom was paid and he was released,” a relative said.The relative added that Ramani remained in good health during captivity as the group’s cook was among those abducted, ensuring he had access to regular meals.The family was deeply worried as militant groups have increasingly targeted economic centres in Mali, where kidnappings of foreign nationals, including Indian and Chinese professionals, have been reported in recent years.“We were told by authorities in Mali that armed groups often do not immediately acknowledge kidnappings. They wait until the family loses hope before confirming the hostage is in their custody and then begin ransom negotiations,” the relative added.Ramani is expected to travel to the US, where his family has been based for the past several years and manages its diamond business.Originally from Dhar village in Amreli district, Ramani later moved to the US, where the family expanded its business from natural diamonds into lab-grown diamonds and jewellery.About two years ago, as part of a business diversification plan, Ramani entered the gold mining sector and began exploration activities in Mali. He was reportedly supervising operations at one of the mining projects when he was kidnapped by unidentified armed men.
