Surat, India, July 27: A 75-year-old Indian-origin diamond trader who was reportedly kidnapped in the West African nation of Mali has been released after his family is said to have paid a €4 million (approximately ₹44 crore) ransom following months of negotiations.
According to reports, Dhiru Ramani, a businessman originally from Dhar village in Gujarat’s Amreli district, was abducted in April 2026 while living in Mali, where he had recently acquired interests in a gold mining operation.
Sources told Press Trust of India (PTI) that the kidnappers initially demanded nearly ₹100 crore for his release. Following negotiations conducted by Ramani’s family, who are based in the United States, the ransom amount was reportedly reduced to €4 million, leading to his release last week.
Officials said Ramani remains in Mali, where local authorities are questioning him regarding the circumstances of his kidnapping and release.
“He has been released, but he is still in Mali. The local police are questioning him about his release and the circumstances surrounding it,” a source familiar with the matter told PTI.
According to the report, Ramani’s family handled the negotiations privately, and no Indian government agency was directly involved in securing his release.
Long Career in the Diamond Industry
Ramani has been associated with the diamond business since around 1980. Originally from Gujarat, he later relocated to the United States, where members of his family continue to operate in the international diamond trade.
In recent years, he had reportedly expanded his business interests into Mali’s mining sector by acquiring a gold mine, prompting him to spend extended periods in the country.
Security Concerns in Mali
Around the time of the reported kidnapping, the Embassy of India in Bamako issued a security advisory urging Indian nationals living in Mali to remain highly vigilant due to deteriorating security conditions and attacks reported in parts of the country.
The advisory recommended that Indian citizens limit travel, remain indoors when necessary and follow instructions issued by Malian authorities. It did not refer to any specific kidnapping or individual.
Mali has experienced ongoing security challenges for several years, with armed militant groups and criminal organizations operating in various regions. Kidnappings for ransom have been a recurring concern, particularly for foreign nationals and businesspeople.
Investigation Continues
Authorities in Mali are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding Ramani’s abduction and release. Officials have not publicly identified the group responsible for the kidnapping, and there has been no official confirmation regarding the reported ransom payment.
The case highlights the security risks faced by foreign investors and businesspeople operating in regions affected by political instability and armed conflict, where governments frequently advise travelers and residents to exercise heightened caution.