Imphal, March 26: To defuse the abduction crisis and secure the release of German national Heinrich Wolfgang by suspected KLA cadres from Moirangpurel area on March 23, Germany Diplomat, Mr Butler arrived here from New Delhi today.

The United Nations NGO Mission, Manipur (UNMM) which is trying to secure the release of the abducted German national said that Wolfgang may be released late tonight.

Representatives of UNMM assisted by village chiefs of the area where Wolfgang was abducted and local meira paibis today staged a rally to appeal for the release of the abducted German national.

Speaking to media persons, chairman of Volunteer for Village Development (VVD), which is implementing a project funded by the Germany based NGO, Evangelisher Eaturidelungs Dienst (EED), where Wolfgang works, A Tipnis told media persons that the gunmen may have abducted him as they do not realize the yeoman service rendered by the German based NGO.

He also expressed optimism that the abducted man may be released without any harm.

Sources from Police Hqs said that a red alert has been sounded and though police are working over time to secure his release, local authorities are negotiating with the abductors to secure the release of the German national.