A 75-year-old Indian-origin diamond merchant kidnapped in Mali in April has been freed after his family paid a ransom of 4 million euros, equivalent to about Rs 44 crore.
Dhiru Ramani was seized while living in Mali, where he had recently purchased a gold mine. His family, who reside in the United States, negotiated with the kidnappers after an initial demand of around Rs 100 crore. The ransom was paid last week, leading to his release in the West African country.
The payment followed several months of captivity that began in April. Reports indicate the family reduced the demanded sum through negotiations before securing Ramani's freedom.
No further details on his current condition or location have been released by officials or family members.