UN chief welcomes release of two UN mission contractors abducted in Darfur

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki- moon on Saturday was deeply gratified with the release of two contractors working for the United Nations-African Union Mission in Darfur (UNAMID) who were abducted in Zalingei, Central Darfur, Sudan, on Jan. 29, according to a statement of his spokesman.

"The Secretary-General commends the efforts made by UNAMID and expresses his appreciation to the Governments of Sudan and Russia in securing their safe release," said the statement. "He is relieved that the contractors will be able to reunite with their families and loved ones after 128 days in captivity."

The Secretary-General also underscored the importance of UNAMID 's work for the people of Darfur and called on the Sudanese government to launch a full investigation. Endite