South African engineers Frik Potgieter and Peter Huxham, who had been detained in Equatorial Guinea since February 9, 2023, have been released and are back in South Africa, their families confirmed on June 21.

Their release follows a pardon from the President of Equatorial Guinea, for which the families have expressed their gratitude. 

Potgieter (54) and Huxham (55) – the latter a dual South African/UK citizen – were detained in Equatorial Guinea on drug charges and subsequently sentenced to 12 years’ imprisonment.

The men were working for Dutch company SBM Offshore in Equatorial Guinea at the time of their arrest.

The families had argued over the past two years that their arrest was in retaliation to actions taken by the South African government against high-ranking officials in Equatorial Guinea.

In July 2024, the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention found their imprisonment to be “arbitrary, unlawful and in breach of multiple international human rights obligations”, and called for their release.

“We are overwhelmed with relief and joy. The last two years and four months have been unimaginably painful for both of our families. Today, we are finally able to say: Frik and Peter are safely back home,” family spokespersons Shaun Murphy and Francois Nigrini said.

The families also expressed their appreciation to everyone who worked behind the scenes, including SBM Offshore, the South African and UK governments, international diplomatic partners, Parliamentarians, legal teams, Hostage International and other civil society organisations and the media.

They also thanked former International Relations and Cooperation Minister Naledi Pandor and current Minister Ronald Lamola, who visited Equatorial Guinea as envoys of President Cyril Ramaphosa.

In a separate statement, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation acknowledged the complexity of the matter, including its sensitive diplomatic and legal dimensions.

It said it appreciated the Equatorial Guinea government’s continued provision of consular access and the spirit of constructive diplomatic dialogue that had been maintained throughout this period.

“The government of South Africa remains committed to strengthening bilateral relations with Equatorial Guinea and reaffirms its dedication to constructive engagement, mutual respect, and the resolution of challenges through diplomatic channels,” the department highlighted.

The families also expressed their thanks to individuals globally who signed petitions, supported media advocacy and provided other support.

“Their return home is the result of collective efforts over many, many months, and we are deeply grateful to everyone who played a role in securing their freedom.

“This has been a long and difficult journey. We want to thank every person who stood with us; your support carried us through our darkest moments. We now respectfully ask for privacy and space as Frik, Peter and their families begin the long journey of healing,” the families said.