BBC journalist 'kidnapped in Gaza Strip'
Alan Johnston is reported missing in the Gaza Strip
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Monday, 12, Mar 2007 07:55
A British journalist is feared to have been kidnapped in the Gaza Strip.
Alan Johnston of the BBC is missing but his employers are yet to confirm that he has been abducted.
The journalist, who is one of very few western journalists following daily events in Gaza, was reportedly kidnapped by masked gunmen.
"We are currently unable to contact him and are concerned for his safety. We are trying to gather as much information as possible," the BBC said in a brief statement.
Palestinian police have begun coordinated searches for Mr Johnston, whose car was found abandoned.
Gunmen were sighted close to the location of the vehicle, according to media reports.
Several western journalists have been abducted in the Gaza Strip in recent months. All have eventually been released unharmed.
"These are wicked hands aiming to disturb the Palestinian scene especially in these last moments as we discuss establishing a national unity government," CNN quoted Palestinian interior minister Said Sayam as saying.
"This is a criminal act that is condemned by the Palestinian government and the Palestinian people."