Agency admits negligence in kidnapping
(Thomson Reuters Foundation) — The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) admitted negligence, but denied gross negligence, in a trial involving a former employee kidnapped in Kenya in 2012.
Steve Dennis is suing the agency, for gross negligence after he and three colleagues were abducted by armed men in Dadaab refugee camp and taken to Somalia.
They were rescued four days later by Somali militia and Kenyan troops.
Dennis, a Canadian who had spent ten years in the field, said a leg injury and post traumatic stress disorder from the attack have limited his work options.
The judge’s verdict is expected next month.
A review by NRC staff provided about 130 recommendations for improving its safety and security work. NRC said all of the key points from it have been implemented.
"NRC acknowledges that the lack of information security in Dadaab has been underpinned in the course of the court proceedings. NRC therefore has conceded that this constitutes negligence," NRC said.
The NRC said it earlier offered a NOK4.5 million (US$524,246) out of court settlement.
