Udham Singh Nagar: A sensational case of fraud and kidnapping has come to light from Gadarpur, where a youth was lured with promises of a job in South Korea but ended up being held hostage in Ethiopia.
The family has alleged that a gang of agents duped them of lakhs of rupees and is now demanding Rs 50 lakh for his release.
Youth was lured for a job in South Korea
The victim has been identified as Rohit Kumar, a resident of Abdullah Nagar. According to his family, Rohit was approached by Himanshu Sharma, a local agent from Gadarpur. Sharma assured the family that he could legally send Rohit to South Korea for employment. A deal of Rs 15 lakh was agreed upon, and the family paid Rs 5.65 lakh upfront.
Instead of South Korea, Rohit was first sent to Bangkok, then Sharjah, and Dubai. Finally, he was taken to Ethiopia on April 5, 2026. Soon after reaching Ethiopia, Rohit lost contact with his family. Disturbing photographs later surfaced showing Rohit with his mouth tied and injuries visible on his body.
The family claims they received ransom calls demanding Rs 80 lakh initially, followed by QR codes asking for Rs 50 lakh. In one call, the kidnappers threatened to cut off Rohit’s ears if the money was not transferred. These threats have left the family terrified and desperate for help.
Gang reportedly operates from an office named Intraco
The family alleges that Himanshu Sharma is part of an organized gang. Other names mentioned include Abhimanyu, Shweta, Trilochan Singh, and Mandeep, along with unidentified associates. The gang reportedly operates from an office named Intraco near Papneja Colony on Gularbhoj Road, Gadarpur, where they run fraudulent activities under the guise of sending people abroad.
Local police have been approached with evidence, including call recordings and photographs. The family has demanded strict action against the accused and immediate steps to ensure Rohit’s safe return. Public representatives in the area have also called for intervention, stressing that such fraudulent networks are exploiting vulnerable youth who dream of overseas jobs.
Many families in Uttarakhand and other states fall prey to such scams
This case highlights the growing menace of illegal agents promising foreign employment. Many families in Uttarakhand and other states fall prey to such scams, losing money and sometimes their loved ones to dangerous situations abroad. Authorities have urged people to verify agents and only use government-approved channels for overseas employment.
As investigations continue, the family waits anxiously for Rohit’s safe rescue. The incident has shocked the local community and raised urgent questions about the need for stronger regulation of travel and job placement agencies.