Long serving missionary Dr Kenneth Elliot has been released after more than seven years in captivity in West Africa. On January 15th 2016 he was kidnapped along with his wife in Djibo Burkina Faso, his abduction was claimed by a cadet branch of Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM).
In a statement released by Senator Penny Wong’s office “Dr Elliott is safe and well and has been reunited with his wife Jocelyn and their children.”
“We acknowledge the strength and resilience Dr Elliott and members of his family have shown through the most difficult of circumstances.
“We extend our thanks to the Australian officials who have worked over many years to secure Dr Elliott’s release and to provide support to his family,” the statement said.
Dr Elliot has been dubbed ‘the Doctor of the poor’, along with his wife Jocelyn he ran a120-bed clinic in Djibo for 40 years prior to the abduction. Jocelyn was released by her captors in February 2016.
Dr Elliot’s family said in statement, “We wish to express our thanks to God and all who have continued to pray for us.
“We express our relief that Dr Elliott is free and thank the Australian Government and all who have been involved over time to secure his release. We also continue to pray for those still held and wish them freedom and safe return to their loved ones.
“At 88 years of age, and after many years away from home, Dr Elliott now needs time and privacy to rest and rebuild strength. We thank you for your understanding and sympathy.”
The family have asked for privacy at this time.
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