Tragic Death of Kerala Man Thomas Gabriel Pereira Attempting Illegal Border Crossing
Thomas Gabriel Pereira, a 47-year-old man from Kerala, India, was shot by Jordanian security forces while illegally trying to enter Israel. Traveling with his brother-in-law, he was fatally shot at the border after reportedly attempting to flee from guards. The incident has raised concerns about illegal migration and the dangers associated with promises of job opportunities abroad.
An Indian man named Thomas Gabriel Pereira, 47, was fatally shot while attempting to illegally cross into Israel from Jordan on February 10. A resident of Thumba in Kerala, he traveled to Jordan on a tourist visa. News of his death was confirmed by the Indian Embassy in Jordan via email, marking a tragic incident for his family back in India.
Thomas was accompanied by his brother-in-law, Edison Charles, who suffered a leg injury during the confrontation with Jordanian security forces. The duo reportedly ran into trouble after being spotted at the border, leading to a tragic sequence of events where Thomas was shot in the head.
Prior to this incident, it was reported that the two men were enticed by an Indian agent offering jobs in Israel for a lucrative monthly salary. They had paid a substantial advance fee of approximately Rs 210,000, with further payments planned upon securing employment. This situation highlights the risky choices some individuals make in search of better employment opportunities abroad.
In terms of family dynamics, Thomas had kept his travel plans secret from his wife, Christina, believing she would disapprove. His last communication with her was on February 9, where he assured her of his safety. A relative noted that he had worked previously in Kuwait, indicating that he was no stranger to working abroad, despite the risks involved.
After the shooting incident, Edison lost consciousness and was taken into custody in Israel before being later deported back to India. He returned to Kochi and subsequently reached Thiruvananthapuram without long-term physical harm, although the psychological impact of the ordeal may remain.
The tragic shooting of Thomas Gabriel Pereira underscores the perils faced by individuals seeking better job opportunities abroad through illegal means. It serves as a reminder of the risks associated with such decisions and the impact on families left behind. The complexities of international labor migration, potential scams, and the dangers at borders highlight the need for awareness and caution among those considering employment overseas.
Original Source: www.firstpost.com
