The last remaining French citizen kidnapped by Al-Qaeda in Mali three years ago has been freed. Serge Lazarevic, 51, was freed today by his captor.
He was kidnapped together with his fellow Frenchman, Phillipe Verdon while they were on a business trip on November 24, 2011.
So far, no information as to how the release was secured. Or if the French Government paid any ransom for his release.
The French President, Hollande said, ''Our hostage, Serge Lazarevic, our last hostage is free.'' There are no more French hostages in any country in the world.''
Lazarevic would be met by his daughter in Niamey, Niger before he will make his way home to France, where he is expected to be welcome by the president.''
During his three years in captivity, Lazarevic was shown in several videos by the insurgents. The most recent being in November 2014. Where he was noticed with a long beard, black hooded cap and a lean face. The video sparked speculations that he was most likely sick.
Lazarevic and Verdon were captured in a small hotel in Bombori in northern Mali. They were accused of being French spies. Last year, Verdon who suffered from ulcer and tachycardia was killed.
The French president thanked the authorities in both Mali and Niger who helped in securing the release of Lazarevic.
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