2023-05-19 09:11:19
An 88-year-old Australian doctor, Kenneth Elliott, has been freed seven years after he was kidnapped by jihadists in Burkina Faso, the Australian government announced on Friday (May 19th).
Doctor Elliott and his wife were kidnapped by jihadists linked to Al-Qaeda on the night of January 15 to 16, 2016 near the border with Niger. His wife, Jocelyn, was released the following month following Nigerien mediation.
The surgeon returned to Australia on Thursday evening, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong told reporters. “Doctor Elliott is safe and reunited with his wife, Jocelyn, and their childrensaid M.me Wong. I am very happy that his release has been secured and that he is once again safe with his family. »
The abduction of the couple had been claimed by the jihadist group Ansar Dine, linked to Al-Qaeda. In July 2017, the organization Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) published a video showing six hostages, including Kenneth Elliott.
Doctor Elliott’s family said they were relieved. “We wish to thank God and all those who have continued to pray for usshe said in a statement. At 88, and after many years away from home, Dr Elliott now needs time and privacy to rest and regain his strength. We thank you for your understanding and sympathy. »
Before their abduction, the couple from Perth, Western Australia, had run the only medical clinic in Djibo, a town near the border with Mali, since 1972. They had also carried out humanitarian actions in Mali and Niger.
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