Gujarat youth in Russian Army killed on Ukraine front

Atul Mangukiya, uncle of Hemil Ashwinbhai Mangukiya, who was killed on the Ukraine front, said the family didn't know of his death in an air strike until two days later. 

The family didn't believe the news. "We cross-checked it with other sources. 

Sadly, the information was true," Atul said as the family organised a prayer session on Monday for Hemil in the Varachha neighbourhood where he grew up.

Hemil, who didn't study beyond Class 12, moved to Velanja village in Kamrej taluka of Surat with his parents and 21-year-old brother a few years ago.

Atul said the younger of the siblings was currently studying in UK.

Hemil's last call to his family lasted over two hours.

The young man learned of the Russian army looking for "helpers" on social media. 

Based on a recruitment agent's directions, he reached that country and took up a job that apparently paid handsomely.

Hemil's family intends to request the govt to contact the Russian authorities for clarity on the circumstances of his death.

A police officer said Hemil went to Russia on a normal visa.