UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi is very pleased by the safe release of three UNHCR staff members Sarun Pradhan, Ramesh Karki and Musa Omer Musa Mohamed who were abducted on 27th November in El Geneina, Sudan. Among three, Sarun Pradhan is a Nepali citizen.

Special thanks in particular go to the Sudanese Government and its personnel, who worked to ensure this outcome. We also wish to thank the members of the UN’s hostage management team and others who worked tirelessly on this case.

At this time our immediate focus is on their health and well-being, as well as that of their loved ones following this ordeal. We are doing everything possible to ensure they are being well taken care of.

“UNHCR would like to thank all those who have sent messages of concern and solidarity during these difficult last days. These messages have come from supporters, governments, partners and private individuals, and they have been welcome solace,” said the press release issued by UNHCR.

UNHCR staff work in some of the most difficult circumstances in the world, helping people in great need, and often facing being far away from their families for lengthy periods at a time. Like other humanitarian workers, they should not have to endure the peril of abductions, violence and threats to their lives. We are renewing our call to all parties, not just in Sudan but everywhere, to respect international humanitarian law and ensure the protection of all civilians, including aid workers whose work is to help refugees and others affected by conflict and persecution.

UNHCR will be continuing its work in Sudan, providing life-saving support to hundreds of thousands of displaced in the country.

We appeal to everyone to respect the privacy of Sarun, Ramesh and Musa Omer and their families at this difficult time and as they begin the process of healing. UNHCR will be standing with them on this journey.