Statement from the South African Government on the four South Africans abducted in Iraq

 Pretoria – In response to media enquiries, the Department of Foreign Affairs wishes to place on record that:

• There is no evidence that indicates that the 4 abducted South African citizens in Iraq are either alive or dead;
• There is no South African representative in Iraq.  The Department continues to liaise with the relevant Iraqi authorities through our Ambassador in Amman, Jordan who is accredited to Iraq;
• The Department continues to work with our Diplomatic Missions in the region as well as the Employer with a view to resolving this matter;
• The Department will continue to support the families; and
• The Department reiterates that Iraq remains a very dangerous place in which to work.

Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa on 082 990 4853

Department of Foreign Affairs

Private Bag X152

Pretoria

0001

23 August 2007