Palestinian security steps up search for kidnapped British citizens

Palestinian security forces set up roadblocks throughout the southern Gaza Strip on Thursday as they stepped up a search for three British citizens abducted by Palestinian gunmen, the latest in a wave of kidnappings of foreigners in the chaotic area.

Kate Burton, 25, a British aid worker, was &to=http://english.pravda.ru/world/2002/01/28/26052.html' target=_blank>kidnapped along with her parents Wednesday in the southern town of Rafah, said Interior Ministry spokesman Tawfiq Abu Khoussa. Palestinian officials and British diplomats conceded late Thursday that they were no closer to freeing the hostages.

&to=http://english.pravda.ru/world/2002/09/23/37082.html' target=_blank>Palestinian security officials said that they were in contact with armed groups, but had not yet determined the family's whereabouts. They set up roadblocks in Rafah and the nearby town of Khan Younis to inspect all traffic moving through the area.

"We have nothing new on the case," said Gaza police chief Alaa Hosni after sundown Thursday. "We are continuing our search efforts, and we will not stop until the British family is safely returned." He said he believes they are still in Rafah.

A team of British diplomats rushed to Gaza and was in close contact with the Palestinians, a diplomat said. "We're quite happy with the way things are going, but the three nationals are not close to being released," said the diplomat, who spoke on condition of anonymity under department regulations.

Burton's family released a statement through the British Foreign Office. "We are a close family, and are naturally deeply concerned about our parents and sister," it said. "Kate is a warm and loving person, and has been working as a volunteer in Gaza for the past year, trying to do what she can to help the situation there. We are grateful for the help and messages of support that we are receiving."

The kidnapping was the latest in a string of abductions of foreigners in recent months. The kidnappings have undermined Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas' attempts to establish order in Gaza following Israel's withdrawal from the area in September.

"This is part of a new fad of kidnapping for extortion and seeking jobs," Abu Khoussa said.

In most cases, the kidnappers have sought jobs in the Palestinian security forces, the release of imprisoned relatives or other personal matters. In all cases, the victims have been released safely.

Abbas' critics have accused him of giving in to kidnappers' demands, thereby encouraging more abductions.

There was no claim of responsibility for the latest kidnapping, reports AP. O.Ch.