Key takeaways:
- Jeff Woodke, an American aid worker, was kidnapped in Niger in 2016 and released outside of Niger in the Mali-Burkina Faso area.
- The U.S. government worked closely with partners in the region and beyond to ensure safe transport and immediate access to medical and psychiatric care for Woodke.
- The FBI is now investigating the circumstances of Woodke’s kidnapping and captivity, and the U.S. government is committed to the safe return of all Americans held hostage abroad.
American Aid Worker Jeff Woodke Freed After Six Years in Captivity
An American aid worker who was kidnapped in Niger more than six years ago and held hostage by terrorists has been released, according to U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan.
Jeff Woodke, who was kidnapped in October of 2016, was released outside of Niger in the Mali-Burkina Faso area, a senior administration official said.
The U.S. government worked closely with partners in the region and beyond to ensure safe transport and immediate access to the best medical and psychiatric care for Woodke.
Sullivan tweeted Monday morning, “I’m gratified & relieved to see the release of U.S. hostage Jeff Woodke after over 6 years in captivity. The U.S. thanks Niger for its help in bringing him home to all who miss & love him.”
The FBI is now investigating the circumstances of Woodke’s kidnapping and captivity. Woodke’s family has requested privacy as they work to reunite and begin the process of healing.
The U.S. government is committed to the safe return of all Americans held hostage abroad and will continue to work tirelessly to bring them home.
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