Swiss (69) and Austrian (76) released 1.5 years after kidnapping in Niger

Two women kidnapped in Niger over a year ago have been released. Austrian Eva Gretzmacher and Swiss Claudia Abbt were abducted in Agadez while working as humanitarian aid workers. Their release was confirmed by both governments after they were medically checked in Libya. The circumstances of their kidnapping remain unclear, with no group claiming responsibility, although links to IS have been suggested. Christoph, Gretzmacher's son, sought help from Libyan General Haftar for their release, and Abbt expressed gratitude towards him and his son for their assistance.