Four Indians Kidnapped in Ethiopia Rescued, Embassy Working to Bring Them Home
ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia — Four Indian nationals from Punjab who were kidnapped in Ethiopia last month have been rescued and are safe, the Indian Embassy in Addis Ababa announced Thursday.
The four individuals were abducted on the night of September 25 and rescued by Ethiopian law enforcement authorities on October 1, according to the embassy. Indian diplomatic officials are now coordinating arrangements for their return to India.
“Four Indian nationals from Punjab, who were kidnapped in Ethiopia on the night of September 25, 2026, were rescued by the Ethiopian law enforcement agencies on October 1, 2026. All four are safe. The Embassy of India in Addis Ababa remained in constant contact with the local authorities to facilitate their rescue and ensure their well-being,” the embassy said in a post on X.
Indian consular officials met with the four individuals on October 14 after Ethiopian authorities granted consular access. The embassy said it provided assistance, including Indian food and other essential supplies.
“Following the grant of consular access, consular officers from the Embassy met the nationals on October 14, 2026, and provided necessary consular assistance, including Indian food, and other basic amenities. The Embassy is making all necessary efforts to facilitate their safe return to India,” the embassy said.
Officials did not disclose the identities of the rescued individuals or provide details about the circumstances surrounding their kidnapping.
The rescue comes amid renewed diplomatic engagement between India and Ethiopia.
Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos in Addis Ababa on October 9 to discuss expanding cooperation in trade, investment, education, technology, infrastructure and security.
Jaishankar described the relationship between the two countries as a strategic partnership rooted in shared values and longstanding cooperation.
“Delighted to meet Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos of Ethiopia in Addis Ababa. The India – Ethiopia Strategic Partnership is based on our shared values, common aspirations and historic South – South solidarity,” Jaishankar wrote on X following the meeting.
The ministers also discussed regional and global developments, multilateral cooperation and strengthening India’s partnership with the African Union.
Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the talks focused on expanding bilateral ties in education, culture, trade, investment and digitalization.
The Indian Embassy said it remains committed to ensuring the four rescued nationals return home safely. (Source: IANS)
