Lagatar24 Desk
Hyderabad: Mohammed Sufiyan, a 22-year-old man from Telangana, has returned to India after being duped into working as support staff for the Russian military during its ongoing war with Ukraine. Sufiyan, a resident of Narayanpet district, returned home on September 14, ending his family’s months-long agony and uncertainty regarding his safety.
Sufiyan, who left India in November last year, had initially been promised a security-related job by an employment agent. However, upon arriving in Russia, he discovered that his role involved assisting the Russian military in its conflict with Ukraine. “I was never told I would be working with the troops in the war. I was assured of a security job and told that after three months of training, my salary would increase,” Sufiyan revealed upon his return.
For months, Sufiyan’s family anxiously awaited news of his safe return, with his brother Salman expressing hope during a July interview with PTI that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Russia might expedite Sufiyan’s release.
Indian Government’s Intervention
Sufiyan’s return was made possible after India successfully raised the issue with Russian authorities. During his visit to Russia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi “very strongly” discussed the matter with President Vladimir Putin, requesting the early release of Indian nationals who had inadvertently found themselves working with the Russian military.
Following the intervention, Russia agreed to India’s demand, ensuring the safe return of Indian nationals like Sufiyan who were caught in the conflict.
Sufiyan’s safe return has brought immense relief to his family, who had been concerned for his well-being while he was stationed in a war zone.
