Victim treated for shock and injuries

VALSAYN businessman Robin Ramadhar was released by his kidnappers around 3.30 am yesterday in the vicinity of Medical Associates, St Joseph, after a ransom was paid. He was treated at a medical institution and was later warded for observation. Relatives said Ramadhar was unable to speak because he was dehydrated and was being treated for shock. “His condition is serious because of acts of violence against him,” said a relative, who declined to say what type of injuries Ramadhar suffered but police officers confirmed he was beaten.

Sources told Sunday Newsday the kidnappers contacted Ramadhar’s family on Friday afternoon and demanded a large sum of money. The money was paid. Ramadhar, who spent seven nights in captivity, was abducted while liming with friends at the Curry House Restaurant, San Juan, two Fridays ago. Eyewitnesses said two armed men approached him and announced: “We come for you.” Ramadhar told police officers that he was kept blindfolded the entire time he was in captivity. He said his hands and feet were bound and he was beaten by his kidnappers. He also said he was not given anything to eat and was only allowed drinks of water. The businessman reportedly described his kidnappers as “professionals.”

Friends and relatives who gathered at Ramadhar’s  home yesterday were in high praise of the people who prayed and offered support to the family. “Robin is a hard-working businessman who is known for his generosity to the community in charitable ventures,” a relative, who didn’t want to be identified said. “He and his wife come from families with deep-rooted tradition, and we are deeply concerned for the welfare and well being of Ramadhar and all others who have, or may fall prey to this utterly senseless and abominable criminal act.”

Nine persons have been kidnapped for the year. Between last week Thursday and yesterday, four victims were freed. However, Chaguanas teenager Nadine Harripersad, who was kidnapped on Wednesday, is still in the hands of her abductors who have demanded a $2 million ransom. Chris Elves, a Curepe businessman who was kidnapped three weeks ago, has not yet been released.