Alan Johnston

As many of you who read the international news will know, Alan Johnston - reporter for the BBC in Gaza - has been missing since the 12th of March 2007. A few days ago, rumours circulated that he had been killed by a group calling themselves the "Tawihid and Jihad brigades". President Mohamoud Abbas is stating that he believes Alan to still be alive, but there are currently no more news about the situation.

When working in Afghanistan and having a house in Pakistan, I (Geir) had the pleasure of meeting Alan at the end of his period in Afghanistan. He came and stayed for a couple of nights in the house where I rented a room from another person working for the BBC. I remember Alan as a really nice guy and have since always remembered him with joy every time I have heard him on the radio.

I was extremely saddened to hear of the fact that he had been kidnapped, and I can only say that I really hope that we will be hearing some good news in the near future. It must be a terrible time for his family.

In order to express my support, I have added a link from the BBC to our pages. I urge anyone reading this diary entry to go the BBC's website and to include their names and/or a message in supporting Alan and his family at this difficult time.

Any problems, please email webmaster. This page was last updated 24/07/2008