Robert Vieira, an American citizen who had been detained in Tunisia for over a year, was released on Sunday, according to a statement from U.S. Special Envoy Adam Boehler.
Vieira had spent 13 months in pre-trial detention while carrying out missionary work in the country. Tunisian authorities had reportedly suspected him of espionage, Boehler told journalists.
“We appreciate the government of Tunisia’s decision to resolve this case and allow Mr. Vieira to reunite with his family after more than 13 months of pre-trial detention,” Boehler said in a statement.
He noted that his efforts to secure Vieira’s release included close cooperation with Tunisian Foreign Minister Mohamed Ali Nafti.
