Eritrean gospel singer released

Helen Berhane was among about 2,000 members of illegal Evangelical church groups in Eritrea, who Amnesty says have been arrested in recent years.

She was reportedly imprisoned inside a metal shipping container and beaten in an effort to make her recant her faith.

Ms Berhane, a well-known singer at the unregistered Rema Church, had just released a cassette of gospel music when she was arrested in the capital, Asmara, on 13 May 2004.


We understand that she's at her home, or her family home. Of course we've had no contact with her because that's extremely risky for somebody who's just released from prison
Martin Hill, Amnesty International
She was being held at Mai Serwa military camp where many prisoners, including Ms Berhane according to Amnesty, are held in metal shipping containers.

The containers are swelteringly hot during the day and freezing cold at night, with no washing or toilet facilities, Amnesty International says.

The human rights group's researcher for the Horn of Africa, Martin Hill, told the BBC's Focus on Africa programme that he was delighted Helen Berhane had been freed.

"She's not in good health but at least she's released and Amnesty International really welcomes the release, which is the culmination of a massive international campaign," he said.

'Contact risky'

Amnesty International says Ms Berhane is confined to a wheelchair because of her injuries to her legs and feet.

"We understand that she's at her home, or her family home. Of course we've had no contact with her because that's extremely risky for somebody who's just released from prison," Mr Hill added.