Surat Diamond Tycoon Freed After Rs.45 crore Ransom in Mali

SURAT: Veteran Surat diamond industrialist Dhiru Ramani, who was abducted in the West African nation of Mali nearly three months ago, has been released after his family reportedly paid a ransom of €4 million (around ₹44 crore). The kidnappers had initially demanded ₹100 crore for his release, according to family and industry sources.

The 75-year-old businessman, who shifted to Mali two years ago to manage a large gold mining project, was allegedly held captive along with his cook and an electrician. Their safe release has brought immense relief to the Ramani family and the global diamond business community.

Family sources had earlier suspected that the abduction was carried out by a radical group linked to Al-Qaeda, rather than ordinary criminals. The family reportedly handled the negotiations privately without involving any government agency.

“We had no other option but to negotiate and ensure their safe return. The entire process was handled by the family without any government assistance,” a close relative said on the condition of anonymity.

According to sources, the kidnappers arranged a video call with Dhiru Ramani to prove that he and the two other Indians were alive. This reportedly helped the family move forward with negotiations that eventually secured their release.

Dhiru Ramani is a well-known name in the international diamond trade. He owns Ramani Export, a diamond factory, and CBD Diamond and Jewelry showrooms in New York, while his business network continues to operate in Surat. His sons are American citizens and the family is currently based in the United States.

“The incident has alarmed many Surat entrepreneurs investing in high-risk African nations,” a senior diamond trader said.

The kidnapping has renewed concerns among Indian businesspersons operating in conflict-prone regions, especially after recent advisories warning Indians in Mali about rising security threats and abduction risks.