
A Spanish national, kidnapped on January 14, 2025, near the Algerian-Malian border, has been released. Algerian Television confirmed the hostage's safe return on January 21, 2025, with the plane carrying him scheduled to land at Boufarik airport.
The Spanish hostage, Gilbert Navarro Canada Joaquim, was a tourist visiting the region when he was abducted by an armed group of five individuals. The Ministry of National Defense (MDN) confirmed his safe release and revealed that he had been transported from Tin Zaouatine airport to Boufarik Military Base via a special aircraft. The MDN praised the professionalism of the National People's Army (NPA) in handling the operation. Navarro is in good health and will soon be handed over to Spanish authorities.
In a statement to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Navarro expressed his gratitude to Algerian authorities. "I thank President Tebboune and all the authorities for their assistance," he said. He added that the warm welcome he received in Algeria had a deep impact on him.
President Abdelmadjid Tebboune expressed gratitude towards the NPA and the Ministry of National Defense, thanking them for their efficiency and discretion in securing the release of Navarro.
Navarro also shared a personal reflection, saying, "It was a difficult moment for me, and I needed time to recover. The Algerian authorities were very helpful, and I felt safe and at peace."
The successful operation highlights Algeria's ongoing efforts to combat organized crime, demonstrating the strength of its security services in managing such crises.
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