AFGHANISTAN: Relatives of Co Armagh hostage Ms Annetta Flanigan who is held in Afghanistan have appealed through the UN for her safe release, the British Foreign Office confirmed last night, writes Dan Keenan, Northern News Editor
Friends and family of two other hostages also signed a statement calling for the kidnappers to respond to the spirit of the Islamic Eid festival and show generosity to their captives.
According to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, the UN in Kabul released the following statement: "It has been more than two weeks since Angelito, Annetta and Shqipe were taken. At this sacred time and of giving gifts the only gift we desire is their safe return.
"Angelito, your sister says: 'I together with the rest of the family want to relay to you that we all love you. We are always here for you. We pray for you that you'll be here with us soon.'
"Annetta, your mother says: 'Everybody is praying for you and hoping that you will be home soon.'
"Shqipe, your friend says: 'I miss your laughter, your constant teasing of me and your voice.'
"We understand that after 25 years of strife and uncertainty some people in Afghanistan may do desperate things. But the Afghan people are honourable.
"We dearly hope that the people holding Angelito, Annetta and Shqipe will demonstrate that honour at this holy time and place them somewhere safe where they can be found and restored to us." It was signed: "The families and friends of Annetta Flanigan, Shqipe Hebibi and Angelito Nayan."