A Swiss missionary has been kidnapped from her home in Timbuktu, Mali for the second time in four years.
According to Malian and Swiss authorities, armed men arrived at the home of Beatrice Stockly in a convoy of four vehicles.
Confirming the abduction, army spokesman Souleymane Maiga said: "I confirm that a European woman was kidnapped in Timbuktu at 3.30 a.m. (0330 GMT).
"A neighbour alerted the security forces around 6 a.m."
No one has claimed responsibility for her second abduction but al-Qaeda linked fighters are known to operate in the area.
Beatrice Stockly was taken by Islamic militants in 2012 but was released after four days.
It's claimed that despite French forces driving Islamist fighters out of urban areas back in 2013, attacks have intensified in recent months.
France still has armed forces on the ground in the African country along with the UN, which has a a 10,000 strong peacekeeping force in operation.
A Monthly Gift Of $11 Makes A World Of Difference
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you.
Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. No one in the USA is sharing news like we are across radio, magazines and online so please help us to continue that today.
For a monthly gift of $11 or more we’d also be able to send you a free copy of the brand new Premier Bible, a wonderful Anglicised version of the NLT packed with exclusive bonus content, reading plan and resources to help you get the most out of scripture.
Your monthly support will make a world of difference. Thank you.
Support Us
