Afghanistan Families Of Hostages Plead For Release

Families, Friends Of UN Staffers Held In Afghanistan Plead For Their Release

The families and friends of the three United Nations staffers being held in Afghanistan today issued an emotional appeal for the safe return of the trio, who had been working to support the country's historic election when they were abducted late last month.

In a statement circulated by the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), the loved ones offer personal messages to Annetta Flanigan, Shqipe Hebibi and Angelito Nayan.

"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 here with us soon," the statement quoted Angelito's sister as saying.

"Everybody is praying for you and hoping for that you will be home soon," said Annetta's mother. "I miss your laughter, your constant teasing of me and your voice," wrote one of Shqipe's friends.

In their joint statement, the families and friends express hope that the people holding Angelito, Annetta and Shqipe would "place them somewhere safe where they can be found and restored to us."

Striking a note of tolerance, they say, "We understand that after 25 years of strife and uncertainty, some people in Afghanistan may do desperate things, but the Afghan people are honourable."

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