Detained since Nov. 11, 2024, Canadian humanitarian released

STAFF WRITER

The Veterans Transition Network (VTN) is relieved and overjoyed to confirm the safe release of David “Canadian Dave” Lavery from Taliban custody in Afghanistan on Jan. 26, 2025. Lavery, a Canadian veteran and humanitarian, had been detained by the Taliban’s General Directorate of Intelligence (GDI) since Nov. 11, 2024.

“We are immensely relieved to know that a friend, father, veteran, and Canadian humanitarian is out of harm’s way,” said Oliver Thorne, CEO of the Veterans Transition Network. “Our work over the past three years to evacuate Afghan allies who supported Canada’s mission would not have been possible without Dave’s personal commitment and bravery.”

Perth native and former Canadian Armed Forces member Dave Lavery, a long-time advocate for Afghan allies, travelled to Afghanistan to assist in the safe passage of migrants in partnership with the VTN. His latest trip was intended to provide direct support to Afghan allies and lay a Remembrance Day wreath at Afghanistan’s Canadian Memorial in Kabul. Upon arriving at Kabul airport, Lavery was detained and held in Taliban custody for two and a half months.

For weeks, VTN and Lavery’s family intentionally avoided releasing details of his situation to minimize speculation that could have jeopardized his safety or hindered diplomatic efforts. “The last 10 weeks have been a roller coaster of emotions for everyone involved, especially as we navigated an incredibly complex situation while avoiding publicity,” said Tim Laidler, Afghan Support Director for VTN.

VTN extends its profound gratitude to the Government of Qatar and partners in Doha for their critical support in securing Lavery’s release. “Dave Lavery is a Canadian hero,” said Gavin Dew, board chair of VTN. “Canadians need to know what Dave did in their name, and we look forward to sharing his incredible story.”

Lavery served in the Canadian Armed Forces from 1979 to 2000 and has spent much of his life dedicated to humanitarian efforts. After retiring from the military, he worked as a senior security adviser for the United Nations and later founded Raven Rae Afghanistan, a company providing risk management and secure accommodations for businesses and non-profits in the region.

In 2021, Lavery partnered with VTN to help provide safe passage for Afghan interpreters and civilians at risk following the Taliban’s resurgence. During the Kabul crisis, Lavery played a critical role in moving thousands of Afghan allies to safety, remaining at the airport until one of the final evacuation flights departed amidst an Islamic State bombing.

Now recuperating from his months-long detention, Lavery is processing his experience and spending time with his family. While VTN recognizes the public’s interest in his story, they request privacy for Lavery during this time.

The network thanks all those who contributed to Lavery’s safe return, including the Government of Qatar, the Canadian government, and informal supporters in Doha.