News at ABWE
Peru Incident Update
The media are reporting a decision by U.S. officials not to prosecute CIA operatives in connection with the tragic shootdown of ABWE’s plane in Peru in 2001, which killed missionary Roni Bowers and her daughter, Charity. The media have also reported on the reaction of some family members of the missionaries involved upon learning of the decision and the investigation. We wish to clarify the position of ABWE for visitors to this site.
Until recently ABWE was not aware of an investigation of CIA operatives, other than the intial investigations by a special State Department-appointed commission immediately after the incident (led by Rand Beers), and by the Senate Intelligence Committee, in both of which we cooperated fully. Upon completion of these initial reports, we asked for and received from the State Department information about planned changes to the aviation provisions of the drug interdiction program in Peru.
This past Sunday, February 6, 2005, we became aware through the media of the government’s decision not to pursue filing charges. Since we had not been informed of the ongoing investigation, we have no comment on the matter. In addition, we have no plans to request further investigation or information.
As to reports of a U.S. government settlement with victims included, we can only say that ABWE is aware of a settlement, but that we (ABWE) received no compensation from the U.S. government related to the losses sustained in the incident. We have no further comment. We will not speak for the missionaries involved, and out of respect for their privacy, will not provide their contact information or serve as an intermediary for communication about this news. Thank you for understanding.
Contact:
Don Davis
don@abwe.org