Two women kidnapped in Niger more than 18 months ago, including 76-year-old Austrian development worker Eva Gretzmacher and 69-year-old Swiss social worker Claudia Abbt, have been released and returned to Europe following medical checks in Benghazi, according to nos.nl.
Abduction and Captivity in Agadez and Mali
Gretzmacher was taken from her home in Agadez in January of last year by armed men. She had lived and worked in the central Nigerese city for more than twenty years as a humanitarian aid worker. Months later, Abbt faced the same fate in the same city, where she also spent many years working in social services. During their prolonged captivity, the captors transferred both women across the border into neighboring Mali.
Unclaimed kidnappings highlight Sahel security risks
African media reports indicate that no group has formally claimed responsibility for the abductions, leaving the exact motives unclear. Observers point toward the Islamic State or affiliated factions operating within the Sahel region. Violent gangs heavily finance their operations in the area through human smuggling and the targeting of foreign nationals. Officials have not confirmed whether a ransom was paid to secure the release.
Negotiations and Return Via Libya
Christoph, the son of Gretzmacher, previously reached out to Libyan General Haftar to assist with rescue efforts. Video footage captured Abbt expressing direct gratitude to the general and his son, General Saddam Khalifa Haftar, for their intervention. Following their release, both women underwent medical evaluations in the Libyan city of Benghazi before boarding flights back to Europe.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where were the two women abducted?
Eva Gretzmacher was seized from her home in Agadez in January of last year, while Claudia Abbt was taken in the same city a few months later.
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