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World News

Video shows abducted priest being tortured

Father Tom Uzhunnalil was abducted during a raid at a care home run by nuns in the Yemeni capital Aden in March.

Four nuns and 12 elderly people were killed in the attack which was carried out by Islamic terrorists. The exact group behind the incident is not known but some have blamed Islamic State.

Some readers may find the video below upsetting.

There had been conflicting reports about whether Fr Tom was still alive. The latest video, posted on Facebook, appears to show the priest being beaten. It's not clear when it was recorded.

The footage shows the priest blindfolded and being hit repeatedly by men. The man in the video is widely thought to be Fr Tom although he is now bearded.

A picture of the priest was also posted and Fr Tom's family have confirmed they think it is him.

There is trouble trying to negotiate with his captors, it has been reported, because it's not clear who they are.

In April Pope Francis called for Fr Tom to be released. At his general audience he said: "Dear brothers and sisters, in the hope given to us by the risen Christ, I renew my appeal for the release of all hostages in zones of armed conflict.

"In particular I would like to recall the Salesian priest Tom Uzhunnalil, kidnapped in Aden in Yemen on March 4."

In May an Indian government official said Fr Tom's release was imminent.

"Last minute efforts are underway and his release is imminent," the official said.

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