UNAMID appeals for release of abducted staff members in Darfur

September 28, 2009 (KHARTOUM) — The hybrid peacekeeping mission in Darfur appealed today for the release of two civilians staffers abducted since one month ago.

The abduction occurred in Zalingei, 100 klm southeast of El-Geneina the capital of West Darfur state, on Saturday August 29. The two staff members, one woman and one man, were taken at gunpoint by four or five gunmen from their residence to an unknown destination.

Today marks the thirty-first day of the abduction of two international civilian staff members of the AU-UN Mission in Darfur (UNAMID).

“While the Sudanese authorities continue to work for the release of the two staff members, UNAMID renews its appeal to their abductors for their immediate, safe and unconditional release.”

The kidnappers requested one million Sudanese pounds, about 500,000 USD, according to reports published in Khartoum. UNAMID spokesperson, Nourredine Mezni said the kidnapper had contacted the peacekeeping mission and asked for ransom but he declined to identify them or to give further details.

Also, state minister for humanitarian affairs Abdel Baqi Al-Gilani at the time described the abductors as bandits adding they have no link with the rebels.

(ST)