An ambitious trip to the United States for two young Indians from Gujarat turned into a harrowing ordeal in Azerbaijan, only to end with their safe rescue after swift diplomatic intervention by Indian authorities. The incident highlights the dangers associated with illegal migration networks and the notorious “donkey route,” which claims to offer a pathway to the US but exposes travellers to significant risk.

Dhruv Patel (22) and Deepika Patel (32), both residents of Kanthariya village in Anand district, left India on January 30 with hopes of reaching America for a new life. Their journey, organised by a Mumbai‑based agent promising passage through the illegal donkey route, began with travel from Anand to Vadodara and then to Delhi, where the duo prepared to board a flight to Baku, Azerbaijan’s capital.

Donkey Route Explained

The donkey or “dunki” route is an unauthorised and dangerous migration path used by people from India and other South Asian countries attempting to enter the United States without valid visas or legal channels. It involves complex, multi‑country overland and aerial connections, often facilitated by unregistered agents.

Upon reaching Baku on February 1, the situation quickly deteriorated. The agent, identified as Pawan, told the pair to switch off their phones, raising immediate concern. He later demanded additional funds and discouraged them from contacting the Mumbai agent. When Dhruv and Deepika refused to pay extra money, they were abducted the next morning and taken to a secluded house, where they were held captive.

Physically assaulted

While in captivity, Dhruv was physically assaulted, and the kidnappers used WhatsApp video calls to show his family the brutality, threatening to remove and traffic his organs if ransom demands were not met. The families managed to gather around ₹65 lakh as ransom, with about half paid in cryptocurrency, yet their captors continued to insist on more money.

With the situation escalating, Dhruv and Deepika’s families sought help from Anand MP Mitesh Patel, who immediately contacted India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar. The matter was taken up at the highest diplomatic levels, leading to the launch of “Operation Mahisagar.” The Indian mission in Baku coordinated closely with Azerbaijani authorities under sustained diplomatic pressure to locate and secure the victims.

Rescue operation

Remarkably, within 24 hours of initiating the rescue operation, both youths were found and brought to safety at the Indian Embassy in Baku. They are currently under the embassy’s protection while preparations are made for their return to India.

The case has drawn attention to the growing problem of fraudulent agents and human‑trafficking networks exploiting migrants’ dreams of a better future. Local police in Anand have registered an FIR against five Mumbai‑based agents believed to be tied to the incident, and the crime branch is investigating further. Reports suggest the gang involved may have connections with individuals known as Pawan Rocky and ‘Baba Khan,’ who have been linked to similar cases in the past.

Investigation Into Human Trafficking Network

MP Patel described the case as deeply disturbing and urged young people not to fall for the lure of illegal migration routes, warning that shortcuts often lead to danger rather than opportunity. Families of the rescued duo expressed profound relief and gratitude toward the government and diplomatic teams whose quick action ensured a safe outcome.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share