October 9th 2005 witnessed the abduction of 39 AU personnel and other representatives (USA;JEM,Sudan, Chad and an interpreter) working in Sasa, Altina area, Darfur. The act was committed by members of Mohammed Salih’s group.

Soon after the incident, Colonol Adam Marno Araja, a JEM commander, moved to the rescue.. After engaging the hostage takers, JEM forces were able to release 37 of the hostages unharmed. JEM lost commander Hamid Jamal Omar Nimir. Two soldiers from JEM were wounded.

The remaining two hostages were subsequently set free and unharmed by General Abdalla Banda Abbakar, JEM Commander in Chief, Monday, October 10. General Okankwe of the AU is now on his way into JEM’s liberated zone. He is accompanied by Mr Hussain Hashim, JEM representative to the CFC. General Okankwe will receive the remaining two hostages together with the retrieved properties including 9 AU vehicles.

JEM would like to stress the following:
JEM offers its sincere condolences for relatives of our courageous martyr, Commander Hamid Jamal Omar Nimir.
JEM denounces the coward act committed by Harba’s group against the AU and international representatives working for justice in Darfur.
JEM affirms its responsibility to co-operate with the AU and members of the International community who are helping in the Darfur crisis, and stands ready for any further necessary sacrifices.
JEM will take all necessary measures to secure its liberated zone and remove any element tan may endanger security in the area
JEM equally condemns the tragic incident that occurred in Menawasha-Nyala area, October 8, which resulted in the tragic death and injury of AU personnel.

Signed