Wed Nov 27 14:57:36 UTC 2024: ## 37-Year-Old Man Reunited with Family After 30-Year Kidnapping Ordeal
**GHAZIABAD, INDIA** – A 37-year-old man, Raju, has been reunited with his family in Ghaziabad after a 30-year ordeal that began with his kidnapping at the age of seven. Raju, who was abducted on September 8, 1993, while returning home from school, was finally located after he managed to escape his captors in Rajasthan and reach a Ghaziabad police station five days ago.
Raju recounted a harrowing tale of abuse and forced labor. He was allegedly taken to Rajasthan, where he was beaten regularly and forced to work for meager rations – just one roti (flatbread) a night. He was tied up at night to prevent escape. However, encouraged by the younger daughter of his captor, Raju eventually found an opportunity to flee. He boarded a truck to Delhi, relying on fragmented memories of his childhood home.
Despite initially struggling to find his family due to memory loss, Raju’s persistence led him to the Khoda police station in Ghaziabad. Police there provided him with food, shelter, and assistance in spreading the word about his situation via media and social media. This ultimately led to his uncle contacting the police, confirming his identity and facilitating his reunion with his family.
Senior police officer Rajnish Upadhyay confirmed Raju’s account and stated that an investigation into the kidnapping is underway. An emotional Raju expressed his gratitude, crediting Lord Hanuman for his safe return after years of prayer. The remarkable story ends with a joyful reunion, highlighting the power of perseverance and the importance of community support.
First Piper 