British Missionary, And Assistant Kidnapped In Cameroon
83-year-old British missionary, Huub Welters, and his assistant, Henry Kang, have been abducted by armed men in Cameroon’s troubled northwest region. The Catholic Mill Hill Missionary, the religious organisation they are affiliated with, confirmed their capture on Tuesday, April 1, in the town of Bambui.
According to reports, the pair were on their way to Ilung, where they were overseeing the construction of classrooms for underprivileged children. However, before they could reach their destination, they were intercepted and taken hostage by unknown assailants.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the London-based Catholic group expressed deep concern over Mr Welters’ well-being. Given his advanced age and recent medical procedures, including joint replacements and a back operation, the organisation fears his health may deteriorate in captivity. Meanwhile, they noted that Mr Kang’s family—his wife and children—are anxiously awaiting news of his fate.
Human rights group African Conscience, which has been monitoring the situation, stated that separatist fighters are likely responsible for the abduction. The group added that the archdiocese is actively working behind the scenes to secure the hostages’ release. “We pray. We plead. We wait,” their statement read, emphasising the urgency of the situation.
The Catholic Mill Hill Missionary further lamented the cruel irony of Mr Welters’ predicament. After dedicating his life to serving communities in Cameroon, he now finds himself held captive by those he once sought to help.
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“At his age, he should be resting, surrounded by the warmth of cherished memories from his decades of selfless service,” the organisation wrote on its website. “Instead, his kindness and sacrifice have been met with violence.”
Cameroon’s Anglophone northwest and southwest regions have been engulfed in conflict for years, as separatist groups continue to fight for independence from the predominantly French-speaking government. The violence has resulted in thousands of deaths and widespread instability, with civilians and humanitarian workers frequently targeted.
While the authorities and church leaders work tirelessly to ensure the safe return of Mr Welters and Mr Kang, the situation remains uncertain. The international community is now watching closely, hoping for a peaceful resolution to yet another tragic incident in the ongoing crisis.
Content Credit: Ajibola Emmanuel
Image Credit: www.dailymail.co.uk
