Fears for missing Afghanistan aid workers

Concerns are growing over the safety of the eight Christian aid workers arrested in Kabul six weeks ago. The group, from the charity Shelter Now, were working on a project to provide emergency accommodation for refugees displaced by years of war and drought. Together with 16 Afghan staff, they were accused of trying to convert Moslems to Christianity - a charge which could carry the death sentence. See ICN 4 September 2001 Afghanistan aid workers trial begins today Initially the group were held in a detention centre in Kabul and appeared in court earlier this month to face charges. They were last seen by diplomats and family members, shortly before the terrorist attacks in America. Now all access to the city has been stopped and the whereabouts of the eight is unknown. The Red Cross is trying to locate the group, and has asked the Taliban for access. Mario Musa, Red Cross director in Peshawar, said the Geneva Convention gave them rights of access only to those detained as a result of conflict. He said: "In this case we have to rely on humanitarian considerations. It is extremely sad and desperately worrying for the families."