An elderly British missionary and his assistant have been kidnapped in Cameroon, sparking concerns for their safety.
Huub Welters, 83, and his assistant, Henry Kang, were abducted on April 1 in Bambui, a town in the country’s conflict-ridden northwest. The pair were on their way to a project building classrooms for underprivileged children in nearby Ilung when armed men seized them, according to The Catholic Mill Hill Missionary.
In a statement on Wednesday, the London-based church group confirmed that Welters had spent his first night in captivity. However, they admitted they had “no idea” where he was.
The missionary group voiced serious concerns about Welters’ health, noting he recently underwent multiple joint replacements and a back operation. His assistant, Kang, has a wife and children who are anxiously waiting for his safe return.
African Conscience, an NGO contacted by AFP, suggested that separatist fighters were behind the abduction. The Archdiocese is reportedly working toward their release.
“We pray. We plead. We wait,” the NGO said, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
In an emotional statement, The Catholic Mill Hill Missionary described Welters as a devoted servant to the people of Cameroon.
“He has given everything—his time, his energy, his very being—to serve the people he loves. And yet, today, he finds himself tormented by the very ones he has spent a lifetime caring for.”
The statement continued, reflecting on his unwavering dedication:
“At his age, he should be at home, resting, surrounded by the warmth of cherished memories. Instead, he chose to stay because his heart wouldn’t let him walk away from those in need. And now, his kindness, his sacrifice, his love have been met with violence and suffering.”
Authorities and church leaders are pushing for their safe return as prayers and appeals for their release grow louder.
