IOC chief Rogge pleads for release of Iraq officials

DOHA, Dec 2 (Reuters) Olympic chief Jacques Rogge today made an impassioned plea for the release of more than 20 Iraqi sports officials missing since being kidnapped four months ago.

Gunmen snatched 30 people from an Iraq National Olympic Committee meeting in Baghdad in July and while some were released soon afterwards, the remainder, including the president, have not been heard from since.

International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Rogge, who was a guest at the opening of the 15th Asian Games in Doha on Friday evening, said those missing should be remembered during the largest sporting gathering ever held in the Middle East.

''We have reasons to be very happy ... we saw yesterday evening a stunning opening ceremony ,'' the Belgian told the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) general assembly.

''We cannot forget, however, that some of our brothers are missing and cannot share this great joy.

''Allow me, on your behalf, to make a plea to all those who are involved.

''Please let them free. Let them return to their homes, let them return to their families, let them return to their national federations so they can continue to work for the youth and the peace of their country.'' Iraq has experienced frequent mass kidnappings this year and while some of the victims are ransomed others end up as corpses on the streets of Baghdad.

REUTERS PM KP1502