Eritrean gospel singer 'released'

Helen Berhane was arrested after recording an album in 2004

An Eritrean Christian gospel singer, detained by the authorities without charge for more than two years, has been freed, Amnesty International says.

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.

But Eritrean Information Minister Ali Abdu denies all knowledge of her case.

More than 90% of Eritreans belong to one of four recognised religions - Orthodox, Catholic and Lutheran Churches and Islam.

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.

But the Eritrean information minister has denied any knowledge of Ms Berhane's case and her reported release, attacking Amnesty instead.

"Who is accountable for them and who has given them the right to be the global police of this world?" Mr Abdu told the AFP news agency.

"I am not saying it is a lie... what I am saying is that if these people like to make such statements then let them enjoy it, but we do not even give them recognition," he added.