Abducted Swedish journalists released

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 8 January 2014

Swedish authorities confirmed the release of two journalists kidnapped in Syria in November. The journalists are now receiving support from Swedish diplomats in Beirut.

Summary

STOCKHOLM: Authorities say two Swedish journalists who were abducted in Syria in November have been released.

Sweden's Foreign Ministry confirmed Wednesday that writer Magnus Falkehed and photographer Niclas Hammarstrom have been released and are receiving assistance from Swedish diplomats in Beirut.

The two freelance journalists were abducted as they were on their way out of Syria in November.

Swedish authorities wouldn't say who abducted them or how they were set free. But national police spokeswoman Jessica Krasser Fremnell said Swedish police had worked closely with other authorities to secure their release.

Press advocacy groups say Syria has become the most dangerous country in the world for reporters over the past two years, with kidnappings becoming a major threat. - AP

KEY POINTS:

• Magnus Falkehed and Niclas Hammarstrom were abducted in November.
• Swedish Foreign Ministry confirmed their release.
• The journalists are receiving assistance in Beirut.
• Details about their abduction and release remain undisclosed.
• Syria has been identified as a highly dangerous area for journalists.