Concerns Grow for Missing Indian Nationals in Iran Amid Allegations of Kidnapping

Families of the missing Indians allege they were kidnapped shortly after landing in Iran, where they were lured by a travel agent's promises of jobs in Australia. The Iranian Embassy is collaborating with Indian authorities on the case as concerns mount over illegal immigration scams.

The Iranian Embassy in India has launched an investigation into the disappearance of three Indian nationals who went missing in Tehran earlier this month. The men, hailing from Punjab, had a stopover in Iran on May 1 while on their way to Australia, where they were promised high-paying jobs by a local travel agent. Their families allege that upon arrival, they were kidnapped by unknown assailants demanding a ransom of 5 million rupees (approximately $63,000).

In a statement on X, the Iranian Embassy assured that it is actively keeping Indian authorities updated on the investigation and warned against the risks of illegal immigration routes. "Indian citizens are strongly advised not to be deceived by unauthorized individuals or illegal agencies offering travel to other countries," the embassy stated.

The Indian embassy in Iran has expressed urgency in addressing the situation, requesting immediate action to locate the missing men and ensure their safety. This incident highlights the plight of many Indians, particularly from Punjab, who seek better opportunities abroad but can fall prey to fraudulent travel agents.

Gurdeep Kaur shared the harrowing story of her 23-year-old son, Amritpal Singh, who was reportedly misled by a travel agent in Hoshiarpur. The agent claimed to have secured an Australian work permit for Amritpal and demanded a payment of 1.8 million rupees. Kaur described how after numerous delays and cancellations, he was put on a flight to Iran under the pretense of a stopover.

Upon arrival in Tehran, Amritpal initially contacted his mother to say he had reached safely. However, moments later, he called again, panicking that he had been kidnapped. Following that call, communication was abruptly cut off. The family soon learned that the agents had vanished, leaving them without guidance or assistance.

According to Kaur, they soon began receiving video calls from unidentified individuals allegedly holding Amritpal and two other men hostage in dire conditions. The kidnappers demanded substantial ransom, initially asking for 20 million rupees before settling on 5.4 million rupees. Despite the threats and distress, Amritpal’s family has refrained from paying the ransom as concerns over their safety grow.

Gursahib Singh, an officer from the Hoshiarpur police, reported that efforts to locate the missing men are ongoing, with authorities conducting searches for leads. Meanwhile, Husanpreet Singh’s family in Dhuri village is facing similar anguish, as they search for answers with no word from him since his disappearance.

The Indian embassy has pledged to keep families informed of any developments as the investigation unfolds. The recent uptick in scrutiny over travel agents involved in illegal immigration in India highlights the risks faced by those seeking opportunities abroad, especially following high-profile deportations of undocumented Indian migrants from the U.S.