UN in direct contact with Solecki's abductors to ensure his safe return

Islamabad, Feb.15 (ANI): The United Nations (UN) has sought to establish direct contact with the kidnappers of the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) head John Solecki, to ascertain whether he is alive or not, The Daily Times reports.

"The organisation remains extremely concerned about John's state of health, and would like to establish direct contact with those who are keeping him," a statement released by the United Nations said.

According to sources, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon called Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari asking him to emphasise on the early and safe recovery of Solecki.

Zardari assured Moon that every step is being taken by the authorities, and resources had been mobilized for the safe recovery of the kidnapped official, sources said.

Solecki was abducted from Quetta on February 2, following an ambush in which his driver was killed.

A relatively unheard of militant outfit, the Baluchistan Liberation United Front (BLUF), has taken responsibility for the kidnapping. (ANI)