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6 March 2007

Human rights campaigner held in Angola

Global Witness calls for the immediate release of Dr Sarah Wykes

By Martin Bright

A friend of mine has got into a bit of bother in Angola … any help and support much appreciated. See below for details…

The following is a statement agreed with Global Witness:

“Dr Sarah Wykes, a campaigner for Global Witness, the human rights and anti-corruption group, was arrested in Angola by armed police on 18 February, 2007. Dr Wykes was in the oil-rich enclave of Cabinda talking to government and civil groups to assess whether progress had been made in improving the transparency of Angola’s oil sector.

The Angolan authorities have charged her verbally with offences against national security but have not supplied documents to explain the charges. She has been allowed to return to the capital, Luanda, but must report to the police every two days and is unable to leave the country.

Global Witness believes the charges are unfounded and are calling for them to be dropped and for her immediate return to the UK.

Please contact your local MP or the Foreign Office to register your concern and campaign for Sarah’s swift return to the UK.”

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