Vadodara Man Missing in Thailand, Parents Suspect Human Trafficking

A desperate couple from Vadodara, Gujarat, has raised an alarm, claiming their 28-year-old son, Tushar Ranpara, has been held captive in Thailand for the past five months. The distressing situation has prompted the local police to launch an urgent investigation, with the case now escalated to the Vadodara city crime branch due to its severity. The parents, Nagarbhai and Rita Ranpara, are pleading for government intervention to rescue their son and bring him back home safely.

According to the couple, Tushar left for Dubai in April 2024 to work for a private firm, facilitated by two local immigration agents. Later, a Dubai-based agent named Abhishek Kumar arranged for Tushar’s transfer to Thailand in September 2024. Initially, Tushar stayed in touch with his parents through regular video and voice calls. However, all communication abruptly stopped five months ago, leaving the family in anguish. The Ranparas suspect foul play, fearing that their son’s phone was confiscated and that he is being held against his will, possibly forced to work under duress.

The couple recently filed an application with the Sama police station in Vadodara, detailing their concerns and urging authorities to locate their son. Assistant Commissioner of Police (G Division), GB Bambhaniya, confirmed that the investigation has been handed over to the crime branch, which is working to trace Tushar and establish contact with him. “The parents’ application suggests their son may be held captive and coerced into labor. We are treating this matter with utmost priority,” Bambhaniya said on Wednesday.

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Nagarbhai Ranpara made an emotional appeal to both the Gujarat state government and the central government for assistance. “Our son was in regular contact after reaching Thailand, but for five months, we’ve heard nothing. We suspect the agents who sent him there are holding him captive. We beg the authorities to find Tushar and bring him home,” he told reporters, his voice heavy with worry.

This case has sparked concerns about the risks associated with overseas job placements facilitated by unregulated agents. The Vadodara crime branch is now coordinating with relevant authorities to investigate Tushar’s whereabouts, including potential collaboration with international agencies to ensure his safety. As the investigation unfolds, the Ranpara family waits anxiously, hoping for news of their son’s safe return.

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