Thumba, Kerala/Amman, Jordan – An Indian national, Thomas Gabriel Perera (47), was fatally shot by Jordanian soldiers on February 10 while allegedly attempting to cross the border into Israel illegally.
Perera, a resident of Thumba, Kerala, had traveled to Jordan on a visitor visa. According to reports, he, along with his relative Edison, tried to enter Israel without authorization. While Edison also sustained gunshot injuries, he survived and was later repatriated to India after receiving medical treatment.
Indian Embassy Confirms Incident
On Sunday, the Indian Embassy in Jordan confirmed Perera’s death, stating that they were in touch with his family and coordinating with Jordanian authorities for the repatriation of his mortal remains.
"The Embassy is in touch with the family of the deceased and is working closely with Jordanian authorities for transportation of mortal remains," the Embassy posted on X.
Perera’s family members said they had been informed about his demise by the Indian Embassy but were unaware of his attempt to cross the border into Israel. His wife, recalling her last conversation with him, told ANI, “He only spoke to me for two minutes. He just asked me to pray for him.”
Circumstances of the Shooting
According to an email sent by the Indian Embassy to Perera’s family, he and Edison attempted to cross the border in Jordan’s Karak district. The Jordanian security forces tried to stop them but, after they allegedly ignored warnings, the guards opened fire.
"One bullet hit Thomas in his head, and he passed away on the spot. His body was later sent to the local hospital," the email stated. Embassy officials are expected to visit the hospital to verify his identity and facilitate repatriation.
Family Appeals for Assistance
Perera, who previously worked as an auto-rickshaw driver before traveling to Jordan, is survived by his family, who have now sought government intervention to bring his remains back to India.
The incident has raised concerns over the risks associated with unauthorized border crossings in the volatile Middle Eastern region. The Indian authorities continue to work closely with Jordanian officials to ensure the dignified repatriation of Perera’s mortal remains.
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