Senegal: ICRC helps transfer of 8 persons freed in Casamance

Senegal: ICRC facilitates transfer of eight persons freed in Casamance

Geneva/Dakar, 9 December 2012 – On 9 December the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) facilitated the transfer of six members of the military, one police officer and one civilian after they were released in a rural area of northern Casamance by the Movement of Democratic Forces of Casamance (MFDC).

Captured between December 2011 and January 2012, those released were handed over into the care of the Community of Sant’Egidio. The ICRC took part in the transfer as a neutral and independent intermediary, in accordance with its mandate. “We are very pleased to have facilitated this operation, which will enable eight people to be reunited with their families whom they have not seen for a year,” said Christophe Martin, head of the ICRC’s delegation in Senegal. “During this period, we visited the captives on a regular basis, enabling them to exchange news with their loved ones, and bringing them medical and other relief, as needed.”

The arrangements for the transfer were made by the parties concerned, not by the ICRC. Those released were taken first to Gambia and then to Senegal later on in the day. The ICRC commends the Community of Sant’Egidio, the Senegalese government and the MFDC for their joint efforts to bring about this release.

The ICRC has been working in Casamance since 2004, providing protection and assistance for the victims of the armed conflict there. In addition to visiting detainees, it rehabilitates and supports medical facilities, helps villagers increase their food production, improves access to clean water by sinking wells, and provides emergency assistance for people affected by the violence. It carries out a number of these activities in close cooperation with the Senegalese Red Cross.

The ICRC - working to protect and assist people affected by armed conflict and other situations of violence. Find out more: www.icrc.org

ENDS

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