January 06, 2007

American Kidnapped In Iraq (Updated, Bumped)

Not many details yet. One American and Two Iraqi citizens have been reportedly kidnapped in Iraq. We hope both the American and the Iraqis are returned safely.

Via Chron: BAGHDAD, Iraq — The U.S. Embassy said it was investigating reports that an American civilian was kidnapped today in southern Iraq.

Police in the city of Basra said a U.S. civilian and two Iraqis were abducted in the northern part of the city, according to Voices of Iraq, an independent news agency.

It quoted the city's police chief, Maj. Gen. Mohammed Hamadi al-Musawi, as saying they were kidnapped while on their way to Basra from the province of Maysan in a civilian vehicle.

"We're aware of the reports and are trying to determine the status and welfare of the individual in question," U.S. Embassy spokesman Lou Fintor said.

Update by Vinnie: The two Iraqi translators have been found dead:

Basra - Two Iraqi interpreters kidnapped along with an American citizen a day ago have been found murdered in central Basra, a spokesperson for the British military said on Saturday.

The two were found murdered near a stadium with bullets in the back of their heads, Major Charlie Burbridge said.

Earlier, US embassy spokesperson Louis Fintor confirmed that an American working as a private security contractor was abducted on Friday from near Basra, Iraq's second largest city.

We continue to pray for the hostage. And the screaming tortured torment of his captors.

Thanks again to George.