Groups linked to al-Qaeda and the Islamic State have made tens of millions of dollars from kidnappings in recent years, analysts say. ADWatson’s abduction came two months after Islamic State fighters ambushed a giraffe sanctuary near Niger’s capital, Niamey, killing seven aid workers and their local guide. “It was very complicated, a very complex, tough area.”ADAnother American kidnapped in Niger is still missing. Jeffrey Rey Woodke, a 59-year-old Christian aid worker, remains in captivity four years after Islamic State militants snatched him in the country’s northern desert. The government — newly formed after an August coup d’etat — negotiated the release of a prominent Malian politician, a French aid worker and two Italians: a priest and a tourist.

Source: Washington Post October 31, 2020 13:43 UTC