After nearly ten months in captivity, three hostages have finally been released in the Haut-Mbomou prefecture, in the south-eastern part of the Central African Republic.
This followed negotiations with their captors, according to media reports.
Among them are Koumba Ndiaye, subprefect of Bambouti, and Adriana Nahomie Topien, an
official with the National Electoral Authority (ANE).
Abducted on December 28, 2025 – election day – the three hostages were reportedly held by members of the armed group Azande Ani Kpi Gbe (AAKG).
According to reports from several media outlets, their release on Monday was made possible through negotiations involving members of the National Assembly from Haut-Mbomou, Catholic Church officials, and MINUSCA.
No ransom was reportedly paid, according to sources familiar with the matter, a point that has yet to be officially confirmed.
After their release, the three individuals were reportedly taken to Obo, the capital of Haut-Mbomou.
Their transfer to Bangui was scheduled for the following days, but their actual arrival in the
capital has not yet been confirmed.
This release comes as a relief to the hostages’ families and those who have been working to secure their return. It also highlights the persistent security challenges in Haut-Mbomou, where the activities of armed groups continue to threaten the local population and government officials.
Preventing further abductions and strengthening security remain major challenges for the Central African authorities and their partners.
TE/Sf/fss/as/APA