Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) is demanding at least 90-
million euros in a ransom for the release of four French hostages held since September, a source close to mediators said on Monday.
The French people were kidnapped in September 2010 in neighbouring Niger, where France has a large stake in uranium mining, and are still being held hostage in the desert.
“The kidnappers are demanding at least 90-million euros (128
million dollars) to release the four French hostages still being held,” said the Niger source close to talks taking place in northern Mali.
“They also want the release of AQIM prisoners taken in several countries, including France,” the source said. -
Sapa-AFP