More than 20 Kannadigas from Hassan stranded in Israel amid war

HASSAN: More than 20 Kannadigas from Hassan are stranded in war-torn Israel. The family of Naveen from Sakleshpur taluk sent a message to their relatives back home that they were safe.

People from Dinka in Channarayapatna taluk, Lakkunda in Sakleshpur taluk, Ankihalli and Belgodu villages have settled in Israel. Johnson, Naveen, Deena D’Souza, Eliza Pinto, Anthony D’Souza are from Channarayapatna while Krishnegowda hails from Sakleshpur taluk.

All of them are employed as nurses and in other jobs in Israel. They are living in Talhivi, Jerusalem. Krishnegowda has been living in Israel for almost 20 years and works in a hotel.

Krishna Gowda spoke to his brother Mahadeva on the phone yesterday and told his family members that there are continuous attacks and missile strikes on villages, but that he is safe. He said he will wait for a week to see how the situation pans out. He often vists his hometown Dinka village as his parents live there.

Vanitha, wife of Antony said, “We are constantly in touch with him and he said that there is a terrible atmosphere in the border area, but they are safe now. The police forces assisted them in getting protection in underground bunkers”.

Linet Pinto, mother of Reema Pinto, said, “She went to Israel for a job just six months ago and we are in fear. But she told us that she was safe”.

Juliet Pinto, wife of John Pinto, said, “My husband has been working in the nursing field for 10 years. I have been in constant touch with him, and the police are shifting them to safe places. We are confident they will be safe”.

Vinitha Priya, sister of Vinolya Pinto said, “My sister says that they are at a safe place. When the siren is sounded, they go into the bomb shelter. She has been working for two years. God is always with them”.

Joaquin Pinto, father of Rishab Pinto, said, “We are praying to God for their protection. I have also in contacted him. So far, he is safe, and at present, he is not going outside for work”.