An Australian aid worker who was abducted in Afghanistan in April has been freed, according to Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop.
The woman, whom Bishop identified as Kerry Jane Wilson in a Monday statement, was taken by armed kidnappers at dawn from her home in Jalalabad in late April.
“I confirm that Kerry Jane Wilson, who was abducted in Afghanistan in April this year, has been released, and she is now safe and well,” Bishop said.
“I am relieved for Kerry Jane, and her family with whom I have remained in close contact.”
The Australian government said it would not provide any more details of Wilson’s release, citing the need to protect others who remain captive or face the risk of kidnapping in Afghanistan and elsewhere.
Afghanistan’s National Directorate of Security said Wilson was freed after it conducted a special operation.
Several suspects were arrested, and an investigation is ongoing, the agency said.
A former colleague said there’s been “frantic worry” since Wilson was abducted four months ago.
“To hear the news this morning of her release and that she is safe and well is indescribable,” said the ex-colleague, who asked not to be named for security reasons.
“I hope she returns to her family as soon as possible for much needed recuperation from her ordeal, and I also hope that she will consider returning to Afghanistan to continue her amazing work. She is vital to the future of Afghanistan.”
A number of foreigners have been kidnapped in Afghanistan this summer.
Two teachers at the American University of Afghanistan in Kabul — an American and Australian — were kidnapped at gunpoint earlier this month.
And in June, the Taliban kidnapped some 200 travelers. Six were killed on the spot, according to a police spokesman.
Most of them were released, but the group kept 20 hostages.