Statement on South African Pilots in Angola

The South African Ambassador to Angola, Gabriel Msimang, today Monday 16 February 2004, confirmed that two South African pilots and a passenger have been requested by the Angolan authorities to remain in the country pending the outcome of an investigation into the death of an Indian businessman.

The Indian businessman, the crew of two and three other South Africans flew from South Africa to Angola on Tuesday 10 February 2004 and checked into the Meridian Hotel in Luanda. On Wednesday 11 February 2004, the Indian businessman was found dead in his hotel room.

The Angolan authorities immediately ordered an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death. In this context, the crew and the remaining passengers were requested to remain in Angola to assists with police investigations into the matter.

However, two passengers left Angola commercially before the investigations could be concluded.

The South African Embassy in Angola is in contact with both the crew members, the remaining passenger and the Angolan Authorities pending the resolution of the matter.

Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa at 082-990-4853

Department of Foreign Affairs
P/Bag X152
Pretoria
0001

16 February 2004