Ingrid Betancourt in need of urgent blood transfusion

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BOGOTÁ.-  Former Colombian presidential candidate Ingrid Betancourt, currently being held captive by FARC rebels, is in a delicate state of health and requires an urgent blood transfusion.

A report issued by Caracol Radio to San José de Guaviare, has said that Betancourt is suffering from malaria as well as leishmaniasis and hepatitis B.

The report also stated that the hostage “has not been taken to any kind of medical facility” in the region, contradicting earlier reports indicating that she had been taken to a medical center in February and has been reluctant to receive the medicine she needs. 

The source added that a few days ago Betancourt had tried “to escape through one of the rivers in the area, and that the situation has complicated treatment of the three illnesses that she is suffering from”.

The report from Caracol Radio to Guaviare said the information came from “a very reliable source that has had direct contact with FARC rebels in the exact area where Ingrid Betancourt is being held hostage”.