Issued by: Department of Foreign Affairs
29 August 2000
The reports of the Philippine rebels’ claim that they have kidnapped a citizen of the United States of America by the name of Jeffrick Blake Edwards Shelling is cause for grave concern to the South African government.
The South African government deplores the continuation of kidnappings and holding of hostages and calls upon the hostage takers to desist from their further actions. This new development is a setback to the progress that has been made and does not augur well for the speedy and unconditional release of all the remaining hostages and the final resolution to the whole hostage crisis.
The South African government remains committed to assist in taking all necessary actions in cooperation and consultation with the governments of all the remaining hostages in order to bring about their release. The Department of Foreign Affairs will continue to monitor the situation and liaise with the governments of the remaining hostages as well as that of the Philippines on a continuous and regular basis.
We urge all the affected parties to stay the course of a negotiated resolution as it offers better prospects for ending the impasse without harming the hostages.
For further information, please contact Dumisani Rasheleng
Office No. (012) 351 0067 / 0128
Cell No. 083 709 8166