Fourteen of the European hostages, missing in the Sahara
for over five months have been released by suspected Islamic extremist
kidnappers. One woman hostage died whilst held captive in Mali. The tourists
– nine Germans, four Swiss and a Dutchman are reported to be well, but
exhausted. A political row has erupted over speculation that a ransom
was paid. The German press has reported that the kidnappers wanted $5m
for each hostage as well as security guarantees. The German press believe
that the German government has paid a ransom, although others believe
that Mali has put forward the money, and that Germany will then provide
it with foreign aid. Also at issue is how far Germany – or indeed any
country – should be responsible for its citizens when they knowingly travel
to dangerous parts of the world.