Rebels demand money to release Zambians

Suspected Congolese rebels who abducted 26 Zambians in the northern border town of Kaputa are now demanding an undisclosed amount of money for their release to safety. Peter Machungwa, the Zambian home affairs minister said in Zambian media reports: “At this stage, it is not clear what kind of money they are asking for. It could be perhaps for an illegal entry or immigration fee or fishing in foreign waters.” Those in captivity, however, are reported to be in good health and negotiations for their release are still going on. Meanwhile, district administrator for Kaputa, Emmanuel Chileshe who is leading the investigation team, told IRIN the rebels are also still in possession of five small fishing boats and one big one which they got from the fishermen.