Gift of the Givers say negotiations for kidnapped journo's release to begin soon
Family and friends of South African photographer, Shiraaz Mohamed, are hoping for more news on his whereabouts over the next 48-hours.
This after aid organisation, Gift of the Givers, issued a statement yesterday - saying they believe he is still alive.
Mohamed was abducted 14 days ago in Syria - as he was heading towards the Turkish border.
ALSO READ: Shiraaz Mohamed's family pleads with captors to let him go
In the statement, Gift of the Givers founder Imitiaaz Sooliman explained they have a team on the ground in Syria - which has reliably told them that Mohamed is still alive.
He says negotiations for his release will begin soon. Sooliman has warned Mohamed's family to be cautiously optimistic.
ALSO READ: Dept works to locate kidnapped SA journalist, Shiraaz Mohamed
"This information we have it's a long process, but at least it's progress. More and more people are aware of him, and that adds value. They're being patient, they're praying, and they're just waiting for more information," he said.
#ShiraazMohamed GotG: We have a very decisive plan and will use it as leverage if the need arises.
— Maryke Vermaak (@MarykeVermaak) January 23, 2017
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#ShiraazMohamed GotG: For now we want to diplomatically and amicably resolve the issue as no one really understands why Shiraaz was taken
— Maryke Vermaak (@MarykeVermaak) January 23, 2017
#ShiraazMohamed GotG: As an aside, we have Shiraaz's belongings, his laptop and camera.
— Maryke Vermaak (@MarykeVermaak) January 23, 2017
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