Indian authorities successfully rescue trapped youths from foreign extortionists

Chasing the elusive American dream almost cost two Indian youths their lives. Dhruv Patel and Deepika Patel from Gujarat fell victim to a terrifying Azerbaijan kidnapping after trusting a Mumbai-based agent to smuggle them into the United States via the illegal "donkey route".

The duo began their perilous journey in late January, paying hefty sums of Rs 35 lakh and Rs 15 lakh to their handler. They eventually landed in Baku, a well-known transit hub for illegal migration. Their situation quickly spiralled out of control when a local operative named Pawan demanded extra cash and instructed them to cut ties with their original agent.

When the youths refused to comply, they were abducted and locked inside a secluded basement. The captors subjected Dhruv to severe physical abuse, broadcasting the torture directly to his family through live video calls. The criminals even threatened to harvest and sell his kidneys if their ransom demands went unmet. Desperate to save their loved ones, the families scrambled to pay Rs 65 lakh, partly using cryptocurrency. However, the greedy extortionists continued to demand more money despite the massive payment.

Out of options, the frantic families sought help from Anand MP Mitesh Patel, who immediately briefed External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. This high-level intervention triggered Operation Mahisagar. The Indian Embassy in Baku moved swiftly, applying intense diplomatic pressure on local authorities. Within just 24 hours, the Indian youths rescued safely from the clutches of the gang.

Both survivors are currently recovering under the protection of the Indian embassy while officials arrange their safe return home. Authorities have linked this brutal crime to an international gang run by Pawan Rocky and an Iranian national known as Baba Khan. Meanwhile, police in Gujarat are actively tracking down the five fake immigration agents from Mumbai who orchestrated this dangerous trap.

This chilling case serves as a harsh reminder of the fatal risks associated with donkey route scams. Authorities strongly advise citizens to avoid taking deadly shortcuts pushed by deceitful operators promising a better life abroad.