Austrian hikers freed by Al-Qaeda

Thank God they're in good health and free. AFP

VIENNA (AFP) — The two Austrians freed by the north African branch of Al-Qaeda are "in good health" despite being fed only bread and water during their many months in captivity, the government and a family member said Sunday.

"Wolfgang Ebner and Andrea Kloiber are in surprisingly good health," said the defence ministry in a statement.[...]

The Malian and Austrian governments have refused to comment on the circumstances of the kidnapping and the release. While Vienna denies any ransom was paid, sources close to the negotiations say money did change hands to secure a release.