Anglican Communion News Service

[ACNS source: Anglican Media Sydney / The Australian] Four Anglicans have been released by Solomon Island's rebel leader, Harold Keke, according to national daily newspaper The Australian. However, it was confirmed yesterday that nine members of the Melanesian Brotherhood were still being held hostage by Harold Keke and his supporters in the Weathercoast bush of Guadalcanal. Six of the brothers were first reported missing towards the beginning of May.

The head brother, Harry Gereniu, said that the four Anglicans - who have been held hostage for three weeks - have assumed a vow of silence in order to protect the nine hostages still being held.

Harold Keke, leader of the Guadalcanal Liberation Front, is believed to be responsible for nearly 50 killings in the past year.

The Most Revd Ellison Pogo, Archbishop of the Church of Melanesia, has expressed his appreciation for all the prayers that are being said for the Melanesian Brotherhood, the Church of Melanesia and for peace in the Solomon Islands.