Shiraaz Mohamed's family filled with hope
South African photographer Shiraaz Mohamed's ex-wife, Shirley Brijlal, says the news that he is alive is the best ever.
Aid organisation Gift of the Givers says it has received information Mohamed is still alive after he was kidnapped by gunmen in Turkey near the Syrian border 13 days ago.
Brijlal says the most terrifying thing was not knowing whether he was alive or dead all this time.
"Our prayers have been heard, all praises to our creator. I salute the Gift of the Givers and their dedicated teams for their continued efforts," says Brijlal.
Brijlal says there were times when her confidence wavered, but they fell back on prayer and their faith.
"I am filled with gratitude and hope. He just needs to get home now, then all Shiraaz's loved ones will know for sure that the nightmare of the past two weeks is over," says Brijlal.
"Please continue to hold him, Gift of the Givers, the people of Syria and his captors in your prayers so that negotiations end favourably," says Brijlal.
Brijlal says Mohamed's family is also grateful to the Syrian people for their love and support.
"Everyone's support for Shiraaz has been phenomenal. This attention on the search is the one thing that will keep Shiraaz alive and bring him home safely," says Brijlal.