Aus Dr Released After Abduction

An Australian doctor, Kenneth Elliott, who was kidnapped in northern Burkina Faso in 2016, has been released after more than seven years in captivity.

The 88-year-old doctor has safely returned to his family in Perth. His wife, Jocelyn Elliott, was released shortly after their abduction. The Australian government expressed gratitude to the officials who worked to secure his release and support his family. The Elliotts were running a medical clinic in the region for over 40 years before their abduction.

Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb claimed responsibility for the kidnapping but released Jocelyn Elliott due to public pressure and guidance not to involve women in war. The family has requested privacy and expressed relief and gratitude for the support they received during this difficult time.