Fiji Soldiers released, Bainimarama hails their bravery

Fiji Soldiers released.They were met by the
Force Commander.Photo source.flicker.com

Fiji Prime Minister Rear Admiral (Ret) Voreqe Bainimarama has hailed the bravery of the 45 soldiers held captive for 14 days in the Golan Heights as heroes, Fiji times report. 

Confirming their release during a press briefing in Suva yesterday, Rear Admiral (Ret) Bainimarama said he was relieved that the ordeal was over.

They are all healthy, they are in high spirits and they will soon be in contact with their families and loved ones here in Fiji," Rear Admiral (Ret) Bainimarama said.

He confirmed the men would be debriefed and deserve a period of rest before returning to their duties.

"I know all Fijians join me in feeling a great sense of relief and joy, as well as a deep appreciation for all those who had a hand in securing their safe release, including the skilled group of UN negotiators and our superb team in New York and Suva, who worked constantly behind the scenes to produce this outcome.

"As a nation, we thank you.

"These 45 men are heroes. They kept their cool and showed restraint under the most extreme circumstances imaginable.

"Because of their discipline, not one militant was killed and none of our soldiers were harmed.

"Our men never once breached this mission and as a nation we should be extremely proud of their conduct," the PM said.

Fiji Times