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Austrian Woman Kidnapped in Niger's Agadez Region
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The Austrian foreign ministry has confirmed the possible kidnapping of an Austrian woman, Eva Gretzmacher, by unknown assailants in Agadez, a northern region of Niger near the Sahara Desert.

According to reports, the 76-year-old development worker, who has lived in Niger for over two decades, was abducted in the Fada district of Agadez. Witnesses say armed individuals forced their way into her home, compelling her into a 4×4 vehicle. No other items were reportedly taken during the incident, as per local news outlet Air Info Agadez.

Ms. Gretzmacher is known for her work on education, health, women’s empowerment, and cultural projects in the region.

The Austrian foreign ministry is collaborating with the EU delegation and local authorities to secure her release. Niger’s government has not yet commented on the matter.

The country, led by a military junta since the ousting of President Mohamed Bazoum in July 2023, faces persistent security challenges. Islamist insurgent groups linked to al-Qaeda and ISIS frequently target Niger and its neighbors, Mali and Burkina Faso.

Niger’s military government has sought to distance itself from Western powers, expelling French troops and forming a security alliance with Mali and Burkina Faso. The junta has faced criticism for its inability to curb militant attacks, a key justification for the coup.

Efforts are underway to address the abduction, and updates are expected as more information becomes available.

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Piers Potter
Author: Piers Potter

Piers Potter

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