No Confirmation of Release of South Africans from Niger Delta

Pretoria- South African High Commissioner to Nigeria Stix Sifingo has denied reports of the release of two South Africans abducted in the Niger Delta as claimed in media reports today, Wednesday 17 September 2008.

“No confirmation of the release of the two South Africans has been received from the Nigerian Authorities. In the event of such an eventuality, the two South Africans will be released into the custody of the South African High Commission in Nigeria” said High Commissioner Sifingo.

The High Commissioner nonetheless remains optimistic about the possibility of the release of the two South Africans sooner rather than later.

The Government will work with the Nigerian Authorities until an amicable and speedy resolution is found to the matter. The Government will continue to monitor developments in this regard and inform the public accordingly.

Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa at 082-990-4853.

Department of Foreign Affairs
P/Bag X152
Pretoria
0001

17 September 2008.