"We believe this [the Russian hostages' release] must be under the Sudanese leadership because any interference may not help, but hamper [rescue efforts]. However, we confirm they are in good health and efforts are being made for their release," Ali Karti said.
Karti added authorities maintain regular contact with the Russian Embassy in Sudan, which he noted are "doing their utmost" to secure the release of the two Russian nationals kidnapped in Darfur late January. He said, however, the release of the two African Union-UN peacekeeping mission (UNAMID) contractors are stalled because the kidnappers' demands are unknown.
Karti also stated that Sudanese authorities do not intend to conduct a special operation to free the kidnapped Russians without Moscow’s prior consent.
On January 29, a manager and a technician of the Russian airline company UTair were abducted in Darfur while riding in a minivan.
Both hostages are held in a hard-to-reach mountainous area in the Jebel Avon region not far from Zalingei city, a source in the Sudanese army told RIA Novosti on February 12.
The criminals reportedly demanded a substantial ransom for the release of the airline employees.
The Sudanese authorities have established a crisis management team of security services, military prosecutors and local officials to ensure the release of the Russians. A joint rescue mission is currently underway.
