The recovery of a French hostage in Somalia fails (Update)
(BRUXELLES2 in Paris) It's a failure. Probably had to try it. But the rescue operation of the DGSE agent held hostage in Somalia since 3 and a half years failed. The hostage, Denis Allex, was executed by the hostage takers, according to sources at the Ministry of Defense. " Everything suggests » that Denis Alex lost his life, specified, more cautious, JY Le Drian, during his press conference today (January 12).
2 dead and 1 missing French side, 17 Shebab side
The raid was carried out on the night of January 11 to 12 by the action service of the DGSE (General Directorate for External Security), itself. " The DGSE commando immediately faced strong resistance. The exchange of fire was "violent" - according to the official press release. Two other French soldiers also lost their lives according to the press release. " A soldier was killed, another disappeared “, confirmed during his press briefing, the Minister of Defense, Jean-Yves Le Drian. A confusion which could arise that all the operations on the spot are not finished, in particular to recover the various bodies. 17 of the hostage takers were also killed.
3 and a half years of detention in difficult conditions
Denis Allex was abducted in Mogadishu on July 14, 2009 while on an official assistance mission to the Transitional Federal Government (TFG). His condition had deteriorated quite quickly and he was in a state that was not very good (according to information from B2). " Faced with the intransigence of the terrorists, who for three and a half years refused any negotiation, and who held Denis Allex in inhuman conditions, an operation was planned and implemented we explain to the Ministry of Defence.
Comment: we can probably comment on the conditions of this raid. Despite the losses, this attempt has significance. 1. France does not let down its French citizens held abroad. 2. She does not hesitate - if necessary - to attempt an action to regain strength, even if it means losing the life of the hostage.
