-
Source: ONE News -
Related
New Zealander Mark Taylor has been released from detention in Pakistan and deported, Foreign Affairs Minister Murray McCully said on Saturday.
Taylor, 35, was detained by Pakistani security forces on February 11 after trying to enter a tribal region on the Afghan border, identified as a Taliban and al Qaeda stronghold, without permission.
"It is completely understandable that Pakistan authorities were concerned by Mr Taylor's presence in a prohibited area, and the New Zealand Government is grateful that they kept us informed of Mr Taylor's situation, and his well-being," McCully said.
New Zealand's Honorary Consul in Pakistan was in regular contact with Pakistan authorities during Taylor's detention and was allowed to speak to him by phone on one occasion.
"That allowed us to keep Mr Taylor's next of kin informed throughout his detention," he said.
"Mr Taylor's family has asked that no further information is released regarding his current whereabouts, or the circumstances surrounding his detention and deportation."
Taylor was prohibited from returning to Pakistan.
Latest NZ News Video
-
ONE News Minute 9am update: May 26 (1:00)
-
Kids cough up $14m for Government (1:50)
-
Education ministry 'barbaric' (1:55)
