Abducted Aussie humanitarian worker released in Afghanistan

After four months of captivity in Afghanistan, humanitarian worker Kerry Jane Wilson has been released unharmed, Foreign Affairs Minister Julie Bishop announced Monday.

Bishop claimed that Wilson, 60, is “now safe and well” after she was kidnapped on April 28 in Jalalabad region in eastern Afghanistan. At the time of her abduction, Wilson was working as executive director of a local non-government organisation called Zardozi.

“I confirm that Kerry Jane Wilson has been released, and she is now safe and well,” Bishop said in a statement Monday.

“I am relieved for Kerry Jane, and her family with whom I have remained in close contact.”

The Foreign Affairs minister refused to disclose details of events leading to Wilson’s release, saying that her family had asked for privacy.

“To protect those who remain captive or face the risk of kidnapping in Afghanistan and elsewhere, the Government will not comment on the circumstances of Kerry Jane’s release,” Bishop added.

Meanwhile, Bishop acknowledged the efforts of the Australian consular staff and Afghan authorities who worked for Wilson’s release.

“I deeply appreciate the work of the authorities in Afghanistan whose support and assistance facilitated her release, as well as Australian consular staff who continue to provide assistance to Ms Wilson and her family,” she said.

Prior to her abduction, Wilson has worked for over 20 years in the Middle East with charities related to women’s rights and water security. Zardozi, in particular, helps poor Afghan women earn a steady income from embroidery and handicraft production, according to the Development Aid website.