SWISS, AUSTRIAN WOMEN FREED AFTER NIGER KIDNAP ORDEAL

Two women from Switzerland and Austria have regained their freedom after spending more than a year and a half in captivity following separate kidnappings in Niger.

The women arrived in Benghazi, eastern Libya, after their release, according to official sources cited by Reuters. Their freedom was confirmed on Thursday, October 22.

They were identified as Austrian national Eva Gretzmacher and Swiss national Claudia Abbt. Both were abducted in Agadez, northern Niger, in separate incidents in January and April 2025.

Austria said Gretzmacher’s release followed intensive diplomatic efforts. Swiss authorities also confirmed that Abbt had been freed and was returning home.

The announcements bring an end to a prolonged period of uncertainty over their whereabouts and safety.

Details of the arrangements that secured their release have not been publicly disclosed. The available reports did not establish whether a ransom was paid or identify those responsible for holding them.

Their release marks an important step towards returning to their families and rebuilding their lives after months in captivity.