“I don’t know where she is or how she is."
Police in Malawi are investigating the kidnapping of a British national who was abducted from her home in the nation’s main city, Blantyre.
Nusrat Jiwa Osman was reportedly taken by four men who bundled her into a grey Nissan Dualis at around 12:30 pm local time on Friday, September 11.
The vehicle, which has the registration CA 6956, was then driven away from the property.
Police have been sending SMS messages to the public as they try to establish Ms Osman’s whereabouts.
A reward of more than £12,600 has also been offered for “credible information” that leads to the arrest of those responsible and Ms Osman’s safe return.
The motive for the kidnapping remains unknown, while Ms Osman’s husband has spoken about the distress caused by her disappearance.
He told Nyasa Times: “I don’t know where she is or how she is. My wife is an auditor and I have no issues with anyone.”
The case has also prompted concern from Atupele Muluzi, President of the United Democratic Front, who said kidnappings were becoming more common in Malawi.
He said: “I am deeply disturbed by reports of the kidnapping of Auditor Nusrat Jiwa Osman in Blantyre.
“Kidnappings and abductions are becoming increasingly frequent in Malawi, a country where such incidents were previously largely unheard of.
“This is a matter of grave concern for every Malawian.
“I urge the Malawi Police Service to intensify investigations and do everything within its power to secure Nusrat’s safe return and bring those responsible to justice.
“I appeal to anyone with information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to contact the family or report immediately to the nearest police station.”
Ms Osman’s disappearance has also prompted an appeal from a friend at Little Oaks Montessori School, where she sent her children.
The friend said: “Nusrat was kidnapped on Friday, 11th September, and the search for her is still ongoing.
“Nusrat is one of the kindest, warmest and most loving people I have ever had the privilege of knowing.
“She is a devoted mother and a loving wife, and her family and friends miss her more than words can express.
“Nusrat was also one of the very first parents to enrol her child at Little Oaks Montessori School, making her a founding part of the Little Oaks family. She holds a very special place in our hearts.
“Her family, friends and loved ones are desperately praying for her safety and for her to be brought home soon.”
“Please help us by sharing this poster and spreading the word about Nusrat’s kidnapping as far and as widely as possible.”
The UK Foreign Office said it was aware of reports that a British national had been abducted in Malawi and was in touch with local authorities.
Malawian police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding Ms Osman’s disappearance and are appealing for information that could help locate her.
