Reports of U.S. Citizen Kidnapped in Northern Somalia

Taken Question
Office of the Spokesperson
Washington, DC

http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/dpb/2012/01/182498.htm
January 25, 2012

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Question: What information does the State Department have regarding Michael Scott Moore, a writer who was reportedly kidnapped in Somalia?

Answer: We are aware of news reports that a U.S. citizen has been kidnapped in northern Somalia and we are concerned about the individual’s safety and well-being. We have been in contact with the individual’s family and we are working with contacts in Kenya and Somalia to ascertain further information.

The United States condemns kidnappings of any kind and we call for the immediate release of the victim.

Our Travel Warning for Somalia cautions U.S. citizens of the risks of travel to Somalia and recommends that U.S. citizens avoid all travel to Somalia, noting “Kidnapping, murder, illegal roadblocks, banditry, and other violent incidents and threats to U.S. citizens and other foreigners can occur in any region.”

ENDS

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