The family of Gerco Van Deventer are anxiously awaiting his return, as updates trickle in following his release on 16 December 2023.
Van Deventer was held captive by the militant organisation, Al-Qaeda, since 2017 – after years of back and forth on ransom, the group finally released him. He has been in Algeria since then.
READ MORE: Six years later: Gerco Van Deventer has been released
Gift of the Givers (GOTG) – who have been facilitating negotiations with the group – say updates from the South African State Security have been minimal since Van Deventer’s release. The GOTG is aware that a flight is being arranged for State Security to travel to Algeria and Van Deventer is receiving medical attention there.
“State Security agencies worldwide don’t provide ongoing information on such matters nor do they comment, it appears to be a policy that they follow. We understand that and wait patiently for an announcement at the appropriate time.” – Dr Imitiaz Sooliman, Gift of the Givers
As such, the process prior to his return to the country, and home to Swellendam, does seem like it could be lengthy. This is taking into consideration travelling time between the two countries, the time it will take for debriefing sessions and the preparation of travel and related documentation.
Dr Imitiaz Sooliman, founder of the Gift of the Givers, says based on the videos that have circulated since his captivity, Van Deventer’s physical health appears to be fine. But his emotional and mental state will need to be assessed.
“Hostages go through a debriefing session by the host country, in this case, Algeria, but from what we were told by senior government officials in Mali and Niger, it has to be done in the presence of a South African representative.”
Further to that, the humanitarian organisation notes that the case of Van Deventer’s release is unique – in that it was sudden and unexpected. It says the manner in which it was handled was unusual, as well.
In SmileFM News’ recent communication with his wife, Shereen, she said the family was overwhelmed by information of his release, but are not ready to speak on the matter as yet. Sooliman adds that this is a very anxious and trying time for her.
