State Minister for Tourism, Petroleum and Natural Gas, Suresh Gopi today said that all efforts are on to bring home the body of Sandeep Chandran, a Thrissur native, who was killed in a shelling that took place in the Russia-Ukraine conflict zone recently. The deceased was part of a Russian military group that came under attack in the war zone.

Speaking to media persons in Kochi, he said there are several accessibility issues in the region as blockades are in place in many areas. Diplomatic efforts are also being made to reclaim the body. He said the government is also examining whether more Indians have died in the conflict or enlisted with the Russian military groups.

Sandeep Chandran and a few others looking for employment, landed up in Russia last April through a Chalakkudy-based agent. Reports said they were drafted into the military group on the promise of a work permit and Russian citizenship.