News network Al Jazeera is frantically trying to secure the release of three of its staffers in Egypt - including South African photojournalist Adil Bradlow.
They have been detained by Egyptian authorities since Tuesday.
Bradlow, an award-winning cameraman, and two of his colleagues, Wayne Hay and Russ Finn, were covering the political unrest and violence when they were arrested.
A fourth staffer, Baher Mohammed, who was also arrested, has since been released.
The reasons for the arrests are unknown.
Al Jazeera confirmed to the Sunday Times yesterday in an e-mailed response that it was still working with its lawyers to secure the release of its staffers.
Meanwhile, Bradlow's close friend of 35 years, Benny Gool, said Bradlow's family was praying for his safe return home.
Gool, who is in contact with Bradlow's family at least twice a day, said yesterday that they were "obviously concerned" about his arrest.
"But Adil has worked in dangerous war zones around the world and he speaks Arabic fluently," said Gool.
"At least we know where he is."
He said Bradlow was a "solid journalist", adding: "His whole world has revolved around journalism."
The news network has called on the Egyptian authorities to release their staffers, along with their belongings and equipment, immediately.
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation could not be reached for comment.
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