HealthNet hostages in Afghanistan released

July 8, 2007: It is with great pleasure that we can inform you that the two abducted staff members of HealthNet TPO in Koghiani are released and safe.

Medical doctor Mr. Shiraz and driver Mr. Wali Jan have been captivated since Wednesday June 13. Saturday July 7 they were recovered in Koghiani and returned to the HealthNet regional office in Jalalabad. HealthNet TPO has not been involved in any payment or deals otherwise with the kidnappers.

The HealthNet management wants to express their deepest respect for Mr Majeed Siddiqi (Head of Mission Afghanistan) and Mr Mohammed Naseem (Programme Manager Nangahar Province) who have shown impressive resilience and wisdom in handling this matter, and for the HealthNet team in Nangahar as a whole who have been loyal, supportive and courageous. We also like to thank the Governor of Nangahar Province, the Ministry of Public Health and the community leaders of the Khogiani district for their help and support in getting the hostages released.

Thank you all.

Willem van de Put

General Manager Healthnet TPO