UN renews appeal for safe release of abducted official in Pakistan

The United Nations today renewed its appeal to those holding John Solecki, a staff member abducted in western Pakistan over two weeks ago, to release him immediately without harm.

In a statement released in Islamabad, the UN said it remains extremely concerned about Mr. Solecki’s health, which it was told is deteriorating.

“John has a serious medical condition which may now be endangering his life – a development that would do nothing to help the cause of those keeping him or those among us who want John’s safe return as soon as possible.

“The United Nations once again appeals to those having John to contact us, if not directly, then through a trusted intermediary so that the situation can be resolved in a peaceful dialogue.”

Mr. Solecki, the Representative of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Quetta, was kidnapped on 2 February during an attack in which his driver, Syed Hashim, was killed.

Last week the UN said it is seeking information on a group called the Balochistan Liberation United Front, which on 7 February claimed in local media reports that it is holding Mr. Solecki.