19 June 2008

It is with great sadness that Merlin has learned of the execution of two treasured members of staff in Afghanistan.

At 1.30am last night, a group of unknown men stormed a Merlin clinic in Kunduz province, threatening to burn it to the ground. Dr. Sayid Masoom, our Head of the clinic, and Mohammad Ewazewaz, Merlin's Duty Guard, were both fatally shot in the attack.

Sophia Craig, our Country Director in Afghanistan, said "Our thoughts and prayers are with Mohammed and Sayid's families, as well as our team in Kunduz who are mourning the loss of their friends and colleagues."

We will miss Mohammad and Sayid greatly and once again extend our heartfelt sympathies to their families and friends.