Two German engineers were to return home yesterday a day after they were released unharmed following 99 days in captivity in Iraq, the German government said.
Rene Braeunlich and Thomas Nitzschke were released on Tuesday after being held hostage since Jan. 24. The Foreign Ministry declined to provide details on how the pair were freed, citing safety reasons.
German President Horst Koehler and Chancellor Angela Merkel both expressed relief and joy at the news of the men's release.
"Our thoughts are with Thomas Nitzschke and Rene Braeunlich," Koehler said in a statement. "I wish both of them with all my heart that they are able to swiftly overcome the distress they have suffered."
RSS