Judith rescued from captors in Afghanistan, returns home

Judith D’Souza, an Indian aid worker who was abducted in Kabul last month by suspected militants, has been rescued and returned here on Saturday. The 40-year-old woman, who works for Aga Khan Foundation as a senior technical adviser, was abducted outside her office in the heart of Kabul on June 9.

Judith, accompanied by Indian Ambassador in Afghanistan Manpreet Vohra, arrived at the Indira Gandhi International Airport at around 6 pm and later called on External Affairs Minister 

Sushma Swaraj.

“I am happy to inform you that Judith D’Souza has been rescued,” Swaraj said, announcing her release through a tweet on Saturday morning. She also thanked Afghan authorities for securing her release. “Thank you Afghanistan - for all your help and support in rescuing #Judith.”

The External Affairs Ministry was in constant touch with Afghan authorities to ensure the safe release of Judith, who hails from Kolkata. It was not immediately known who were Judith’s captors and how she was rescued. She was abducted along with two other persons.

“Another safe homecoming! EAM and the two MoSs meet Judith D’Souza in Delhi, after her release from captivity,” MEA Spokesperson Vikas Swarup tweeted along with pictures of Swaraj meeting Judith. The External Affairs Minister also lauded the efforts made by Vohra in ensuring 

Judith’s release.