The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has grave concerns for the safety and well being of Sri Lankan journalist, Darmaratnam Sivaram, after his abduction by an unknown group.
"The kidnapping of Sivaram comes at a time when Sri Lanka desperately needs to make headway in improving freedom of expression and strengthening journalists' rights," said IFJ President Christopher Warren.
On April 28 at 10:30pm an unknown gang abducted Darmaratnam Sivaram, political columnist with the English language newspaper, The Daily Mirror, and member of the editorial board of Tamilnet website from outside a restaurant. Abductors took Sivaram by force to a waiting jeep and drove away.
According to the Sri Lankan, Free Media Movement rebel militant groups may be behind Sivaram's abduction in retaliation for his work as a journalist.
Sivaram has been labelled a pro-Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) journalist by a number of political parties. Police searched Sivaram's residence twice during the previous year and did not find any incriminating evidence.
The IFJ condemns the actions of any group that threatens journalists' lives and the rights of the free press.
"The volatile social and political situation in Sri Lanka is creating an extremely dangerous environment for journalists," said Warren.
"It is essential that the Sri Lankan Government respond immediately to this crisis by securing Sivaran's release and ensuring journalists' safety and a free and independent press, " said Warren.
For further information contact Christopher Warren on +61 411 757 668.
The IFJ represents over 500,000 journalists in more than 110 countries
