Commandos to release French hostage in Algeria

Three men who accompanied a kidnapped French national in Algeria were arrested while a terrorist involved in the operation was identified, according to security sources.

The arrested men were a tourist guide, a driver and another person. They are accused of helping the kidnappers as the guide lives in the area and is aware of terror strongholds.

They told investigators they have nothing to do with the kidnappers. Yet, security forces found evidences about their involvement.

One of the kidnappers who posted a video of them with the victim was identified. His name is Smail Ould Djeli alias Abu Hayane, 34. He comes from Mauritania and joined Al-Qaeda in Algeria in 2006. He is in the wanted list.

The Algerian army mobilized 8 counterterrorim units and surrounded the the area of Ait Ourbane in Tizi Ouzou (100 km east of Algiers) by more than 1,250 soldiers.

Security forces have stepped up security measures around strategic buildings such as ministries and embassies since Monday.

A video tape posted by the group on Jihadist websites showed Herve Gourdel, 55, calling on the French president to intervene for his release.