Nine youths from Tanahu allegedly joining Russian army out of family contact for months

Published On: April 27, 2024 03:15 PM NPT By: Republica | @RepublicaNepal

KATHMANDU, April 27: Nine youths from Tanahu allegedly joining the Russian army have been out of contact with their families for months, causing distress among their loved ones.

According to relatives, these youths decided to join the Russian army due to perceived better career opportunities abroad.

A mother in Byas municipality expressed her anguish, stating that her son has not been in touch with the family for the past four months. Despite initial reassurances from her son, she finds herself restless and spends her days in tears. "I have sleepless nights worrying about my son," said the woman, who preferred to remain anonymous.

Families of these youths have reached out to the Migrant Resource Centre (MRC) under the Safer Migration Programme (SaMI) seeking assistance to locate and ensure the safe return of their children.

Goma Tiwari, a consultant at MRC, revealed that among the reported individuals who joined the Russian security force, three are from Byas municipality, one from Devghat Rural Municipality, three from Bhanu municipality, one from Shuklagandaki, and one from Myagde Rural Municipality. Tiwari mentioned that they have forwarded official documents to the Department of Consular Services under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to trace the whereabouts of these individuals.

It is believed that each youth paid middlemen between Rs 500,000 to Rs 600,000 to obtain a visit visa to travel to Russia and join the military.

Luna Rana, District Coordinator at MRC, speculated that there may be more individuals from Tanahu recruited in the Russian army despite the government's ban on traveling to Russia. "So there may be a few complaints," she added.

The District Administration Office, Tanahu, stated that they are providing orientation to individuals visiting the office for a passport regarding prohibited destinations and the risks associated with unlawful trips.

Efforts are underway to diplomatically facilitate the safe return of Nepalis from Russia. Authorities continue to urge citizens not to entertain any plans to visit countries banned by the State.

(RSS)