Surat Diamond Businessman Safe After Months in Captivity as Reports Link Kidnappers to Al-Qaeda-Affiliated Group
Dhiru Ramani, a prominent diamond businessman originally from Surat, has reportedly been released after spending nearly three months in captivity in the West African nation of Mali. According to family sources cited in local reports, the 75-year-old entrepreneur was freed after a ransom payment of approximately €4 million (around ₹44 crore). The kidnappers had initially demanded nearly ₹100 crore for his release.
While the details have not been officially confirmed by government authorities, the development has brought relief to Ramani’s family, friends, and members of India’s diamond trade, who had been anxiously awaiting news of his safety.
Kidnapping Took Place During Stay in Mali
The incident reportedly occurred about three months ago while Dhiru Ramani was living in Mali, where he had been overseeing a gold mining venture. Two other Indian nationals-a cook and an electrician working with him-were also reportedly abducted during the same incident.
According to people familiar with the matter, the businessman disappeared from an undisclosed location in Mali. Authorities have not publicly revealed the exact location or operational details surrounding the kidnapping.
The case had raised serious concerns among Indian business communities with investments in Africa, particularly those operating in regions facing political instability and security threats.
Family Says Armed Group Demanded Huge Ransom
Relatives familiar with the negotiations alleged that the kidnappers were linked to an extremist organization associated with Al-Qaeda. According to the family’s account, the group initially sought a ransom of approximately ₹100 crore before negotiations eventually resulted in a lower settlement.
These claims have largely come from family members and sources close to the negotiations. Independent official confirmation regarding the identity of the kidnappers or the exact ransom amount has not been publicly released.
Negotiations Reportedly Handled Privately
A relative, speaking anonymously to local media, said the family chose to negotiate directly with the abductors rather than involve government agencies.
According to the source, the family believed private negotiations offered the best chance of ensuring the safe return of the hostages. They reportedly managed the discussions independently and did not seek formal assistance from Indian government authorities or the Ministry of External Affairs during the negotiation process.
The family has not publicly disclosed additional details about how the negotiations were conducted.
Video Call Confirmed the Hostages Were Alive
One of the most critical moments during the negotiations came when the family requested proof that the captives were still alive.
According to relatives, the kidnappers arranged a video call between Dhiru Ramani and his family. The call reportedly showed that Ramani and the two other Indian nationals were alive, allowing negotiations to continue with greater confidence.
Following this confirmation, family members living in the United States are said to have intensified efforts to secure their release.
From Diamonds to Gold Mining
Although widely recognized in the diamond industry, Dhiru Ramani had expanded his business interests beyond gemstones in recent years.
For decades, the Ramani family has maintained a strong presence in Surat’s diamond sector while also building an international business network. Ramani is associated with diamond trading operations in New York, including Ramani Export, diamond manufacturing facilities, and CBD Diamond & Jewelry showrooms. The family also continues to operate an extensive diamond business in Surat, while his sons, who are U.S. citizens, remain active in the global diamond trade.
In recent years, Ramani shifted part of his focus to the mining sector by investing in gold mining projects in Mali. Reports indicate that he had been residing there for nearly two years to personally oversee operations before the kidnapping occurred.
Business Community Expresses Relief
News of Ramani’s reported release has been welcomed by the diamond and jewellery industry in Surat, where he is regarded as a well-known businessman.
The incident had sparked anxiety among entrepreneurs with operations in Africa, particularly those involved in mining, manufacturing, and other businesses in countries considered vulnerable to terrorism, armed conflict, or political instability.
Industry members say the case serves as a reminder of the risks associated with operating in high-conflict regions despite the significant business opportunities they may offer.
India Has Issued Advisories for Mali
The kidnapping also draws attention to broader security concerns in Mali, where extremist violence and kidnappings have become an ongoing challenge in several parts of the country.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs has previously issued travel advisories urging Indian citizens in Mali to remain vigilant due to security threats, including kidnapping incidents affecting foreign nationals.
Although Dhiru Ramani‘s reported release has ended a difficult chapter for his family, the case underscores the complex security environment faced by international business professionals working in conflict-prone regions. Officials have yet to issue a detailed public statement on the circumstances surrounding the reported ransom payment or the broader investigation into the kidnapping.