Ethiopian pilots who defected in Belarus rescued

July 30, 2005
Ethiopian Air Force Officers Association

We would like to confirm that the eight air force pilots are out of Belarus after a daring and complex undertaking by a group of brave Ethiopians. As it was reported, the Meles regime was making a concerted effort to have the pilots deported, or forcefully take them, like they did to the two pilots who sought political asylum in Djibouti last month.

The air force officers, who are now out of Belarus, are all in good condition, safe and secure in a third country somewhere in Europe. The country where they are cannot be disclosed for now due to possible dangers.

The Ethiopian Air Force Association, which has been following the pilots’ situation and with a track record of providing a humanitarian assistance to members of the Ethiopian air force, would like to appeal to all patriotic Ethiopians to assist financially as there are hefty expenses to sustain the living condition and security of these eight brave pilots.

For further information, please call 202 386 3037. You can also make check or money order payable to Association of Members of the Former Ethiopian Air Force.

AMFEA
PO Box 73014
Washington, DC 20056