Indian Embassy in Niger making efforts to secure release of J&K man abducted by terrorists

STC NEWS MONITORING DESK
SRINAGAR, JULY 22 (STC): The Indian Embassy in Niamey, Niger, has been actively working with local authorities to secure the safe release of Ranjit Singh, a resident of Chakka Kundi village in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ramban district, who was abducted during a terror attack in Niger’s Dosso region on July 15, says a report.
Notably, the family of Ranjit had appealed to the Central government to take effective measures to bring him back safely from the custody of his abductors.
Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh provided an update about the situation on social media site X, saying, “Following continuous follow-up by my office, the Ministry of External Affairs has informed that the Indian Embassy in Niamey is actively pursuing the release of Ranjit Singh, a resident of Ramban district, who was abducted in Niger. The embassy is in constant communication with local authorities to ensure his safe return.”
Earlier, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed deep concern over the abduction, urging swift intervention by the Ministry of External Affairs.
In his post on X, the Chief Minister’s office stated, “Chief Minister has expressed concern over the abduction of Ranjeet Singh, a resident of Ramban, in Niger. He urges the Hon’ble EAM @DrSJaishankar and @MEAIndia to urgently intervene to secure Ranjit’s safe and swift return.”
It’s worth mentioning that the attack, which also claimed the lives of two Indian nationals, occurred when unidentified armed assailants ambushed a Nigerien army unit guarding an electrical line construction project, approximately 100 kilometres from Niamey.
The Indian Embassy in Niger had confirmed the incident in a its post on X on July 18, saying, “In a heinous terror attack on 15 July in Niger’s Dosso region, two Indian nationals tragically lost their lives, and one was abducted. Our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. The Mission in Niamey is in touch with local authorities to repatriate mortal remains and ensure the safe release of the abducted Indian. All Indians in Niger are advised to remain vigilant.”
Ranjit Singh, a senior safety officer with Transrail Lighting Limited, a power transmission and distribution company, was working at the construction site when the attack occurred.
(STC)