Body of Sitapur man killed in missile strike in Riyadh attack to arrive today

Lucknow: The mortal remains of the 26-year-old Sitapur resident, who was killed in a missile strike in Saudi Arabia on March 18, is expected to arrive in Lucknow on Wednesday after the Indian Embassy in Riyadh issued a no objection certificate (NOC) on Tuesday.Ravi Gopal of Badhain village in Sitapur had travelled to Saudi Arabia capital Riyadh on Sept 18 last year for employment at a plastic factory. On the night of the incident, he was speaking to his wife, Ritu, over the phone. The conversation, which began around 8:20 pm (IST), ended abruptly at 9:53pm following a loud explosion. His phone subsequently became unreachable. The family was informed of his death the next day by his acquaintances. Sitapur district magistrate, Raja Ganapathy R, took swift cognisance of the matter and coordinated with authorities in New Delhi and the Indian Embassy in Riyadh to facilitate the repatriation process. Officials said all required documentation was completed with assistance from the embassy. The body is being handed over to an Indian national, Ravi Shankar, in Riyadh, who will escort it to India. Authorities indicated that, subject to flight availability in the conflict-affected region, the mortal remains are expected to arrive in Lucknow on Wednesday. Family members said they have been in constant touch with embassy officials, who have assured all possible assistance. They are also awaiting financial aid and govt support.