
A Spanish man kidnapped earlier this month in North Africa has been released by a Tuareg rebel alliance in northern Mali, spokesmen confirmed on Monday.
The man, identified as Gilbert Navarro, was seized on January 17 in southern Algeria by a Tuareg group. He was subsequently transported to Mali, where he was held captive.
According to the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA), Navarro was freed late Monday.
Attaye Ag Mohamed, a spokesman for the group, announced the release via social media, stating that the hostage was in good health.
The FLA confirmed that Navarro would spend the night under their protection before being handed over to Algerian authorities.
Mohamed Elmaouloud Ramadane, another FLA spokesman, provided further details, assuring that more information would be shared soon.
Spain’s Foreign Ministry had previously confirmed the kidnapping but did not verify the specifics surrounding the location or captors.
This release comes amid ongoing tensions between Spain, Morocco, and Algeria over the Western Sahara, a disputed territory once under Spanish control.
Spain’s role in the region continues to be a point of contention.
The Spanish Foreign Ministry has yet to issue an official statement regarding Navarro’s release. The situation remains delicate as diplomatic negotiations unfold between the involved nations.
The FLA’s actions have drawn attention as the region remains a hotspot for militant groups, with multiple hostages being taken in recent months.