afrol News, 23 October - Somalian authorities today released the Director of the United Nations food agency [World Food Programme] in the capital Mogadishu.

Idris Osman has been detained in Mogadishu since 17 October.

“We welcome the release of Idris Osman, and are pleased that he will be reunited with his family,” WFP Executive Director, Josette Sheeran in Rome, said.

WFP had earlier condemned the illegal seizure and subsequent detention without trial of Osman and called for his immediate and unconditional release. He was seized by the Somali National Security Service at a UN compound in Mogadishu.

Osman, the motive of whose arrest remains unclear, is reported to be in excellent health condition. He was not charged or brought before any court of law.

Somalian Prime Minister, Ali Ghedi attempted to justify his arrest and detention, saying Osman was being investigated for unspecified crimes.

His arrest prompted the UN to suspend the distribution of food aid to over 75,000 Somalis in protest.

By staff writer

© afrol News

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