Kidnapped Fox News journalists released

TWO Fox News journalists were freed in good health yesterday after a two-week kidnap ordeal in Gaza during which they were blindfolded, tied up and forced to convert to Islam at gunpoint.

Correspondent Steve Centanni, 60, of Washington DC, and cameraman Olaf Wiig, 36, of New Zealand, were dropped off at Gaza City’s Beach Hotel by Palestinian security officials.

A tearful Mr Centanni briefly embraced a Palestinian journalist in the lobby, then rushed upstairs with Mr Wiig behind him.

The pair, who appeared to be in good health, then met with Palestinian officials, including Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh. The three men sat in a circle of chairs at the hotel, before the journalists held a news conference, then left and crossed into Israel.

“I want to thank everybody. I am happy to be here. I hope that this never scares a single journalist away from coming to Gaza to cover the story because the Palestinian people are very beautiful and kindhearted,” Mr Centanni told reporters.

Mr Wiig’s wife, Anita McNaught, thanked Palestinian officials and Fox News for their efforts in getting the men released.

Speaking to Fox News, Mr Centanni said that during his capture, he was held face down in a dark garage, tied up in painful positions, and forced at gunpoint to make statements, including that he and Mr Wiig had converted to Islam.