Gerco van Deventer, a paramedic who was working in Libya, was abducted in 2017 and sold to an al-Qaeda group in Mali.

Gift of the Givers chairman and founder, Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, says that Dicko has received confirmation from the captors that a final decision for Van Deventer’s unconditional release is underway. Dicko had travelled extensively through northern Mali and met with the kidnappers’ chief intermediary, who was able to connect him with the terrorist group.

“Yehia is currently in the desert of Mali going from village to village to engage tribal leaders and elders to garner support to influence the captors positively. Gift of the Givers made a call in Ramadan (the Holy Month of mercy) to al-Qaeda for the release of Van Deventer, ‘Fie Sabee lilah’, which means an act of goodwill in the Almighty’s name, unconditionally, in this case with no payment of ransom. Al-Qaeda confirmed at that point, around the middle of April, that they had received our letters, pictures, videos and the personal appeal from Shereen van Deventer and her son,” Dr Sooliman said.

It’s understood that usually, if an offer is rejected, a reply would be given within 72 hours. Dr Sooliman explained that two months have passed since Ramadan and the feedback they have received on various occasions is that the group is looking into what’s possible. He added Mali State Security has offered Gift of the Givers total cooperation and has requested South Africa to send an official letter requesting assistance in the matter of Van Deventer.

“This is part of the diplomatic process. Gift of the Givers informed our State Security on this matter a few days ago with the appropriate contact name and number within Mali State Security. We have made an additional compassionate appeal to the captors asking them to consider our request favourably in honour of the days of Hajj (pilgrimage), which are almost upon us,” Dr Sooliman said.

He concluded that they are waiting in faith and prayer for a positive outcome for the family man, who has been in captivity for five years and seven months.

OFM News