(CNN) -- The U.S. is urging Pyongyang to release an American held captive after reports that the man attempted suicide in a North Korean prison. Swedish diplomats met with Aijalon Mahli Gomes, a U.S. State Department official confirmed Friday. He declined to release details about the 31-year-old's condition, citing respect for the family's privacy. "We reiterate our urge for the North Korean government to release Mr. Gomes on humanitarian grounds," said Mark Toner, a spokesman for the U.S. State Department. "A Swedish official had been granted consular access eight times, including today's visit," Toner said. "I think we're concerned about his welfare and -- as we would with any American citizen."
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Swedish diplomats meet with Aijalon Mahli Gomes
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Boston-area native serving an eight-year sentence in North Korea
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Media reports: He recently attempted suicide
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Swedish Embassy represents U.S. interests in the nation
Calls to the @placeholder in Pyongyang were unanaswered over the weekend.