Sonja Nientiet Appeals to German Government as Security Situation Worsens
A German nurse abducted in Somalia seven years ago, Sonja Nientiet, has made an emotional plea to the German government to secure her release as the security situation in the country remains volatile. In a video shared on social media, a visibly distressed Nientiet stated that her health has deteriorated and that the only thing keeping her going is the hope of seeing her loved ones again.
Nientiet’s Abduction in 2018
Nientiet was kidnapped on May 3, 2018, from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) compound in Mogadishu. Somali authorities later revealed that her abduction was an inside job orchestrated by a disgruntled former employee.
This is only the second video of Nientiet since her disappearance, the first being released in 2018 shortly after her abduction. In the latest footage, she speaks in English with a German accent, appearing frail and emotionally distressed as she wipes away tears while stating that her rescue is a matter of life and death.
Humanitarian worker Sonja Nientiet traveled to Mogadishu to aid those in need but was abducted by a security guard entrusted with protecting both her and the International Red Cross facility. She has been missing for seven years and presumed dead a heartbreaking belief her late… https://t.co/1MW7EHLEUY pic.twitter.com/qo0gCb4U5K
— easttowestt 🌍 (@westtoeastt) March 26, 2025
ICRC Expresses Hope for Release
Following the release of the video, ICRC spokesperson Christian Cardon expressed concern over Nientiet’s well-being but noted that the footage provides hope that she may be released soon.
The ICRC will continue to work tirelessly, with all its influence, for this outcome,” Cardon said in a statement.
He added that the organization remains deeply concerned for her health and that her safe and swift release remains the top priority.
However, he declined to provide further details on the circumstances of the abduction or ongoing negotiations, stating that revealing such information could jeopardize efforts to secure her freedom.
German Government’s Response
The German Foreign Ministry has refrained from commenting on the case, stating that as a matter of principle, the government does not discuss hostage situations involving German citizens abroad.
Security in Somalia Remains Volatile
Nientiet’s plea for help comes at a time when security in Somalia remains highly unstable, following recent attacks by al-Shabab militants. Just last week, the terrorist group attempted to assassinate the Somali president in a convoy attack.
The Somali government has intensified its military operations against al-Shabab, making territorial gains in Middle Shabelle and other regions. However, kidnappings and targeted attacks remain a major security concern in the country.
Calls for Action
Nientiet’s heartbreaking plea has reignited global calls for her release, with humanitarian organizations urging the German government and international agencies to do everything possible to bring her home safely.
With no confirmed details on her captors or negotiation efforts, her family and colleagues continue to wait in anguish, hoping that she will soon be reunited with her loved ones.
Source: abcNews