Canadian diplomats missing, feared kidnapped in Niger

No group has claimed responsibility yet. Nigeria has its own share of problems with islamists. National Post

OTTAWA -- Veteran Canadian diplomats Robert Fowler and Louis Guay and their local driver were reported missing Monday in the West African country of Niger after their empty vehicle was found with the engine running, lights on and telephones left behind.

Officials at the United Nations, for whom Mr. Fowler is serving as special envoy to Niger, and the Department of Foreign Affairs said Monday that the men went missing on the weekend. Their car was found about 45 kilometres northeast of Niamey, the capital of one of the world's poorest countries.

Their families have been notified and are receiving consular assistance and Canadian officials are working with UN and local authorities on the situation, Foreign Affairs Minister Lawrence Cannon said in a statement.