Gujarat couple held hostage in Iran freed within 24 hrs

A Gujarati couple, whose American dream turned into a nightmare after being abducted in Iran, have been freed and are set to return to Ahmedabad on Wednesday.

Pankaj Patel and his wife Nisha ended up in Iran after planning to enter the US illegally.

In mid-June, the couple were taken to Hyderabad by smuggling agents. From there, they were escorted to Dubai.

They were told by the agents helping them that they would go to the US from Iran.

However, Nisha called up Sanket, her brother-in-law and Pankaj’s brother, saying they have been abducted and badly needed help. While earlier reports indicated that the abductors were Pakistanis, their identities are yet to be confirmed.

The release happened after the abductors were paid nearly Rs 15 lakh.

They have been freed thanks to the efforts of MoS Home Harsh Sanghavi and the state and central governments within 24 hours after the complaint.