NEW YORK: In a significant development, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed his heartfelt relief as five staff members, who had been held captive by a branch of al-Qaida in Yemen were finally released after 18 months. This long-awaited release has brought an end to their harrowing ordeal and provided solace to their families and friends who had endured months of anxiety and uncertainty. Farhan Haq, the spokesperson for the U.N. chief, conveyed Guterres’ sentiments to reporters, also emphasizing Guterres’ call for the perpetrators behind this act to be held accountable for their actions.
UN Secretary-General Applauds Release of Abducted Staff Members After 18 Months in Yemen
All five released individuals were employees of the Department of Safety and Security. Their abduction took place in February 2022, while they were on their way back to Aden from a field mission in the southern governorate of Abyan. While the exact details of the negotiations leading to their release were not disclosed, however, the United Nations expressed gratitude to the government of Oman for their invaluable assistance. It is worth noting that the UN adheres to a policy of not paying ransom in such situations.
Among, the freed staff members, Akm Sufiul Anam from Bangladesh arrived in Dhaka on Wednesday. Anam shared his profound sense of relief with reporters, revealing that he had often feared for his life during his captivity. Despite, the mental anguish he endured, Anam expressed his gratitude for his safe return. He recounted his experiences, stating that while he had not been physically tortured, he had been subjected to blindfolding for a significant portion of his captivity.
The remaining four hostages were Yemeni nationals – Mazen Bawazir, Bakeel Al-Mahdi, Mohammed Al-Mulaiki, and Khaled Mokhtar Sheikh. UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator David Gressly, speaking via video call, confirmed their well-being and shared his admiration for their resilience in the face of extraordinary circumstances. Gressly had personally escorted the four Yemenis from the southern port city of Mukalla to Aden, where they were welcomed with open arms.
The UN’s efforts to secure the release of its abducted staff members also shed light on the challenges faced by the organization in conflict-ridden areas. Two UN staff members have been in detention in Houthi-controlled Sana’a since November 2021, underscoring the ongoing complexities surrounding humanitarian work in conflict zones. Additionally, a tragic incident in southwest Yemen resulted in the loss of a Jordanian staffer from the World Food Program, who was fatally shot on July 21.
As per Western media, the UN continues to navigate these complex situations and prioritize the safety and security of its personnel, the release of these five staff members stands as a testament to resilience, determination, and the spirit of cooperation among nations and organizations striving to make the world a safer place.
