Originally published by the Voice of America (www.voanews.com).
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September 23, 2007

Two Italians, Two Afghans Missing in Western Afghanistan
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http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=1999F58:A6F02AD83191E160DFE69DE223E599A09574F7DCC14957C0 Authorities said
Sunday they are investigating whether the four may have been kidnapped
Saturday in the province of Herat Afghan police say they are searching
for two Italians and two Afghans who disappeared while visiting a
dangerous area of western Afghanistan.

Authorities said Sunday they are investigating whether the four may
have been kidnapped Saturday in the province of Herat.

Italy's Defense Ministry say two soldiers are missing, and their
families have been informed.  The Ministry did not indicate whether
the soldiers may have been kidnapped.

Earlier reports said the two Italians were believed to be journalists,
and that the missing Afghans were an interpreter and a driver. 
However, Italian officials say no journalists are missing.

Afghan authorities say the four were last seen Saturday in the
Shindand district of Herat province.

Some information for this report was provided by AFP, AP and Reuters.




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