A Kerala native was allegedly shot dead by Jordanian security forces while attempting to cross into Israel.
The victim, Thomas Gabriel Periera from Thiruvananthapuram, had travelled to Jordan on 5 February with his relative, Edison.
Last week, Periera’s family was informed of his death by the Indian Embassy.
Edison, who survived, only learnt about Periera’s death after returning to India.
In Jordan, they attempted to obtain visas for Israel. However, a tourist package required a minimum of 10 people.
They were only four, including a British national. The UK citizen left, promising to bring more travellers. The remaining three decided to cross the border with the help of a guide.
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However, Jordanian border forces intercepted them. Unable to understand their language, the security personnel opened fire. Edison said they pleaded for a chance to call home, but their request was ignored.
The guide, a Sri Lankan national, also could not communicate with the border forces. Edison said he lost consciousness during the incident. When he woke up, he found himself in prison.
"I was able to call my family from jail. I had no money. I only learnt about Periera’s death after the Embassy confirmed it," he said.
This incident comes amid a growing debate on illegal immigration in India. Last month, over 300 Indian migrants were deported from the US in handcuffs. The Indian government is now considering new laws to curb illegal migration.
The Indian Embassy in Jordan acknowledged Periera’s death. It said it was working with Jordanian authorities to bring his body home.
"We are in touch with the family and coordinating for transportation of mortal remains," the Embassy stated in a post on X.
A family member, Beena, said Periera last spoke to his wife on 9 February. "He told her they were safe and asked her to pray," she said.
She added that Periera had not revealed his plans to the family. "We don’t know why he went. He packed his bag and left, saying he was going to Jordan. He arranged the money himself. He knew his wife wouldn’t agree. She is alone now. They don’t have children," Beena said.
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