California: Law enforcement officials in California are investigating the disappearance of a 57-year-old Sikh man, Avtar Singh, who was last seen earlier this week in what authorities believe may be a kidnapping case.
Singh, a resident of Tracy in San Joaquin County, was reported missing on the evening of February 17. According to the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a missing person call around 8:52 p.m. in the 16000 block of West Grant Line Road.
Officials described Singh as approximately 5 feet 7 inches tall and weighing about 200 pounds. At the time he was last seen, he was reportedly dressed in light-colored traditional Sikh attire. Surveillance footage obtained from the area appears to show him in the company of three unidentified individuals near a white SUV. Investigators suspect he may have been forced or coerced into the vehicle, though the exact circumstances remain unclear.
Authorities have not disclosed further details about the identities of the individuals seen in the footage or the vehicle involved, and the investigation is ongoing.
The incident has drawn concern from advocacy groups, including the Sikh Coalition, which said it is “deeply disturbed” by what appears to be an abduction. The organization confirmed that community leaders are working closely with local law enforcement agencies to support the investigation and ensure Singh’s safe return.
Community members and officials have appealed to the public for assistance. Anyone with information related to Singh’s whereabouts has been urged to contact the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office immediately.
As the search continues, the case has heightened anxiety within the local Sikh community, with many hoping for swift developments and Singh’s safe recovery.
