Luke Somers worked as a freelance journalist in Yemen. He was kidnapped by al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula on Sept. 17, 2013.
After a failed rescue attempt by U.S. and Yemeni Special Forces operatives last month, AQAP today posted a video threatening Somers’ life.
"We warn Obama and the American government of the consequences of proceeding ahead in any other foolish action," the official says, according to a translation by Reuters. "We give the American government a time frame of three days from the issuance of this statement to meet our demands about which they are aware; otherwise, the American hostage held by us will meet his inevitable fate."
The video included a statement from hostage Luke Somers “Basically, I'm looking for any help that can get me out of this situation. I'm certain that my life is in danger," he said.
Paula Somers and his brother Jordan responded with a plea of their own posted online.
“Please show mercy and give us the opportunity to see our Luke again. He is all that we have,” Paula Somers said.
The White House Vows to continue efforts to save Somers.
“The president authorized the Department of Defense to conduct an operation to rescue Mr. Somers. Regrettably, when the operation was conducted Luke was not present,” said White House Spokesman Josh Earnest.
“Luke is only a photojournalist and he is not responsible for any actions the U.S. government has taken," said his brother Jordan in the video posted online. “Please understand we have no prior knowledge of the rescue attempt for Luke and we mean no harm to anyone.”
Somers' mother works at Artbeads.com in Gig Harbor, where the news came as a surprise.
“Our prayers go out to her and her family and really we hope for the safe return of her son,” said CEO and co-owner Devin Kimura
Somers had a seasonal job in the shipping department. Co-workers said she kept her anguish to herself.
“Very nice lady," said Valerie Bruderer. “I had no clue whatsoever. I didn't find out anything about this until today. So it's very surprising and a little bit devastating.”
CEO Kimura says the company is offering her time off, with pay.
“To make sure that she can be away from the company without having to worry about the small details like paying the bills and other things,” he said.
KIRO
