Dutch Tourist Stuck in Puri to Return Home After Three Months
Bhubaneswar: After enduring a downhearted experience following a theft incident in Puri, Anthony van Arkel, the Dutch tourist, is finally set to return home. He is scheduled to leave Puri on Thursday for Nagpur, from where he will catch a flight to The Netherlands early on Friday morning.
The Puri district administration has made all necessary arrangements for Anthony’s journey back home and has assured him that his stolen belongings will be sent to The Netherlands via courier shortly.
The breakthrough came as the thief responsible for the theft, identified as Sagar Mallik, was apprehended by the police. Currently, he is undergoing interrogation to ascertain further details of the incident.
Anthony’s ordeal began when he arrived in Puri in January this year, only to fall victim to a taxi driver who absconded with his cash amounting to Rs 6 lakh, a diamond ring, and his camera. Left penniless, Anthony lodged a complaint with the local police, following which the district administration provided him lodging at Niladri Nilay, a nearby shelter home.
The distressing situation gained public attention when Anthony reached out to the media to share his plight. Prompt action followed, with the district administration securing better accommodation for him at the OTDC Pantha Nivas. Additionally, efforts were made to coordinate with the Dutch embassy in India to facilitate Anthony’s safe return home.
Expressing gratitude before his departure, Anthony extended his thanks to the people of Puri and the district administration for their unwavering assistance and support during his challenging time.
As Anthony prepares to bid farewell to Puri, the resolution of his ordeal stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of the authorities and the community, ensuring that tourists like him receive the support they need in times of adversity.
