Australian Doctor Freed After 7-Year Abduction in West Africa

After being held captive in northern Burkina Faso in 2016, Dr. Kenneth Elliott, an 88-year-old Australian doctor, has been released and reunited with his family. His wife, who was also taken captive, was released shortly after their abduction. The Australian government announced his safe return and thanked officials who worked tirelessly to secure his release. Dr. Elliott and his wife had operated a medical clinic in the area for over 40 years before being kidnapped by rebel fighters. Jocelyn Elliott was released after three weeks, and Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb claimed responsibility for the kidnapping. The family has asked for privacy and expressed their gratitude to those who have supported them during this difficult time.