Attack by suspected Somali Pirates on South African Citizens

Ms Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, confirmed this afternoon that two South African citizens were abducted by suspected Somali pirates from a yacht at a location in the Indian Ocean.  A third South African is currently under the protection of officials of the South African High Commission in Nairobi.  The Department is rendering consular assistance.  Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane has conveyed her thoughts and prayers to the families during this trying time.

For more information, please contact the Chief Director for Public Diplomacy, Mr Saul Kgomotso Molobi, on 082 940 1647, +27 12 351 0083 or e-mail him at molobisk@dirco.gov.za.

Issued by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation

OR Tambo Building
460 Soutpansberg Road
RIETONDALE
Pretoria, RSA
0002

8 November 2010