Efforts on to rescue abducted Catholic priest in Yemen

Intense diplomatic efforts at various levels are on to ensure the safe return of Catholic priest Tom Uzhunnalil, currently in Islamic State custody in Yemen, an official source said on Friday.

Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy's office is closely monitoring the situation and is in touch with the ministry of external affairs and people concerned in Yemen and other countries.

"We are unable to reveal all details, but there is intense activity taking place at various levels and in various countries to ensure that the Keralite priest is rescued," said an official posted in Chandy's office, who is coordinating between various agencies.

"We are all hopeful that things will be resolved," said the official.

Earlier this month, armed militants barged into an old people's home set up by Mother Teresa near Yemen in 1992 and shot dead many, including four nuns of the Missionaries of Charity, including one from India.

These militants later whisked away the Kerala priest and there has been no word from him ever since.