In an unsettling turn of events in Cleveland, Ohio, the disappearance of Mohammed Abdul Arfath, a 25-year-old Indian student pursuing a Master’s degree in Information Technology at Cleveland University, has sparked concern and action among families, law enforcement, and international authorities. Missing for over 23 days since March 7, 2024, Arfath’s case has escalated with his family receiving a ransom call demanding $1200 for his safety. This case not only shines a light on the dangers students might face abroad but also brings forward the essential roles and responsibilities of consulate services in ensuring the safety of international students.
What Happened to the Missing Student in Cleveland?
The case of the missing student in Cleveland, involving Indian student Mohammed Abdul Arfath, has gained international attention. Last seen wearing a white T-shirt, a red jacket, and blue trousers, the young student’s whereabouts became a worrying mystery after his family in Malkajgiri district, near Hyderabad, lost contact with him. The situation took a more severe turn when a ransom call was made to Arfath’s father, Mohammed Saleem, asserting that Arfath had been kidnapped by a Cleveland drug gang, and demanded a ransom of $1200.
In response to this alarming situation, Saleem reached out to his relatives in the US, who then immediately filed a missing person’s report with the Cleveland Police. This incident underscores the vulnerabilities students may face while studying abroad and highlights the critical need for safety precautions and awareness.
How Are the Consulate and Authorities Responding?
The U.S. Consulate General in Hyderabad, upon being informed about the incident, assured the safety and well-being of students as being a paramount concern. A spokesperson for the consulate highlighted the commitment of U.S. college and university administrators to work diligently to ensure students’ safety and security. This comes as a reassurance to many that steps are being taken at various levels to address such crisis situations involving international students.
Furthermore, the involvement of the Indian Consulate in Chicago and the appeal made to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar signify a collective effort to safely recover Arfath. It’s imperative for students and their families to know the resources available through their local consulates in times of need.
Indra Nooyi’s Advice to Students in the US
In light of this incident and the general concern over the safety of Indian students in the US, Indra Nooyi, the former CEO of PepsiCo, shared some invaluable advice. On March 21st, 2024, her insights were disseminated through a video shared by the Consulate General of India in New York. Nooyi stressed the importance of students being vigilant, avoiding risky behaviors, and making the most of the support systems available to them, such as university services, local consulates, and the Indian American community at large.
Her appeal to students included:
– Remain watchful and steer clear of dangerous situations.
– Engage with university support systems and the local consulates for assistance.
– Stay cautious of scam artists and money mules.
– Follow the laws of the country and avoid experimenting with dangerous substances or situations.
Ensuring Safety Abroad: What Can Students Do?
Considering the increasing number of students traveling abroad for their studies, ensuring their safety becomes a collective responsibility. Here are some actionable steps for students:
– Always keep in touch with your family and provide them with your updated contact information and whereabouts.
– Familiarize yourself with the local emergency numbers and the address of your country’s consulate or embassy.
– Participate in safety orientation sessions provided by your educational institution.
– Avoid risky behaviors and be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or making unrealistic promises.
The missing student crisis in Cleveland has underscored the importance of safety measures for international students. As investigations continue to locate Mohammed Abdul Arfath, this case serves as a poignant reminder for all students abroad to prioritize their safety and well-being and make full use of the support system available to them through their educational institutions and local consulates.
This Article In A Nutshell:
The disappearance of Indian student Mohammed Abdul Arfath in Cleveland, Ohio, has sparked international concern. Last seen on March 7, 2024, a ransom call demanding $1200 alarms authorities. It’s a wake-up call on the safety risks students face abroad, emphasizing the crucial role of consulate services in ensuring student safety.
— By VisaVerge.com
Read more:
- Indian Student Abdul Mohammed Kidnapped in USA, Family Faces Ransom Demand
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Search Intensifies for Missing Indian Student Arfath in the US
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Indian Consulate in New York Addresses Kidnapping Case of Missing Hyderabad Student
Learn about the consulate’s response
