Ukrainian pilot kidnapped in West Darfur has been freed

November 12, 2015 (KHARTOUM) – Authorities in the Sudanese state of West Darfur managed on Thursday to secure the release of an Ukrainian pilot who was kidnapped last month by gunmen in Kerenek area.

At the time, West Darfur officials said the pilot and a translator working with an international group were abducted by nine gunmen who used 4WD vehicles. Arrests were made earlier this month to several suspects.

The abductors reportedly refused a mediation conducted by tribal leaders claiming they are a revolutionary group without identifying themselves, and as such they reject any tribal tutelary.

West Darfur governor Khalil Abdullah told pro-government Ashorooq TV that the state security committee decided on Thursday morning to end the situation by force after luring the kidnappers to an area within the state and tightening the noose on them and eventually forcing them to hand over the hostage without ransom.

The governor said that the troops undertook a great effort, pointing out that there was no loss of lives on either side.

He said they are working to end the abduction of foreigners in in support of stability, security and development.

(ST)