1. The position of the Government of the Republic of South Africa is that no ransom is paid for South African citizens taken hostage.
2. No, the Government has to date not paid any ransom directly or indirectly for the release of South African citizens.
3. No, the Minister has not been informed of any ransom that has been paid to date by any other entity and/or persons for the release of South African citizens.
4. The Minister will have no objection to making a statement on the matter.