Arrested in India, Omanis could know their fate today

Speaking to us, Satyanarayana, Deputy Commissioner of Police (South Zone), Hyderabad, said, “We are ready to welcome all Omani nationals for tourism, education, business and health purposes, but marrying girls below 18 is a crime in India. We need to convey this message to Omani nationals who come here to get married,” he told.

He added that twelve minors girls were also rescued. “We are looking for more people involved in this racket,” he said.

Along with Omanis, police have arrested some nationals from neighbouring countries, along with hotel owners, brokers and those who perform Islamic marriages. Hyderabad police launched an investigation last month into the marriage of a 16-year-old girl to a 65-year-old Omani man.

In 2016, an Omani was arrested for allegedly trying to marry a minor in India. “People should check and follow the laws of the country before taking any step,” the Embassy official said.

According to Omani law, a citizen must have the approval of the ministry to marry a foreigner.

The applicant should meet the requirements set by the ministry before it approves the application. Under Indian law, the marriageable age for girls is 18 years.