UK envoy hails govt effort to track culprits in acid attack

BY GERALD KITABU

14th August 2013

Dianna Melrose, British High Commissioner to Tanzania

The British High Commissioner to Tanzania, Dianna Melrose has expressed her gratitude to the governments of Tanzania and Zanzibar for their determination to track and bring to justice the perpetrators of the acid attack on two British girls last week.

The attack on the two British teens, Katie Gee and Kristie Trup both 18 happened in Stone Town, Zanzibar on August 7.

In a statement issued yesterday, she said: “It is a shocking attack. Our thoughts and sympathy go out to the young women and their families. We wish them a speedy recovery and will continue to do all we can to support them.”

“I would like to thank the governments of Tanzania and Zanzibar for their public condemnation of the attack and their stated determination to leave no stone unturned in finding the perpetrators and ensuring that they are brought to justice hence reassuring safety to British tourists planning on traveling to the Island.”

The envoy said while police investigation is still pending, it will be unwise to jump to conclusions regarding the motive for the attack or what it implies to foreign visitors. 
She further revealed that the British High Commission has updated its Travel Advice to inform people of the attack and reiterate the need for caution.

She also stated that the British High Commission provided consular assistance to the girls and their families, including facilitating the victims’ flying arrangements from Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam, supporting them while in hospital in Dar Es Salaam and liaising with the insurance company over their medical evacuation.

“Zanzibar remains a popular tourist destination and most visits are trouble free. British nationals are however encouraged to take care and read our Travel Advice,” the High Commissioner stated. 

SOURCE: THE GUARDIAN