Kidnapped Sierra Leone deputy high commissioner has been released

Sierra Leone Telegraph: 5 July 2016

Claude Nelson Williams

The Sierra Leone Telegraph has been reliably informed by government sources in Freetown that, the kidnapped deputy high commissioner to Nigeria – Alfred Claude Nelson-Williams has today been released.

It is not clear whether any ransom was paid. But it is understood that the kidnappers were demanding $40 million for his release.

The former head of Sierra Leone army is said to be recouping well at the residence of the high commission in Abuja.

Earlier today, an investigator from Nigeria’s Department of State Security (DSS) confirmed: “We are in touch with the kidnappers. They made some demands and we are trying to see how we can meet it and secure his freedom.”

claude nelson williams is free - photo second from left

(Photo above: The happy looking retired head of Sierra Leone military – centre – Claude Nelson-Williams, at the Sierra Leone High Commission in Abuja, after his release today).

This is the statement published by State House in Freetown, following news of his release:

“Government is pleased to inform the general public that following the collaborative efforts made by the governments of the federal republic of Nigeria and Sierra Leone, it has been confirmed that Sierra Leone’s deputy high commissioner major-general (rtd) Alfred Claude Nelson- Williams who was kidnapped by unknown assailants on 1st July, 2016, is now safely back at the Sierra Leone high commission in Abuja, and is presently being debriefed by the competent security agencies on his ordeal.

“Government wishes to salute the government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for its unrelenting support and close cooperation during this unfortunate episode.

“Government also wishes to commend the Nelson-Williams family and the public at large for their understanding during these trying times.”

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