Families rejoice at French hostages release

Families of the two French journalists taken hostage by the Taliban delight at the news that they are on their way home.

After 18 months held prisoner their long ordeal is over, and Herve Ghesquiere and Stephane Taponier will no doubt have stories to tell when they report back to their employer, France 3, one of the state broadcasters.

“It’s fabulous. I didn’t believe I’d see them again. I didn’t believe in it anymore,” said Taponier’s mother, Arlette.

“I can’t say anything, I’m all choked up, but this is amazing,” said Gerard Taponier.

In the two men’s newsroom at France 3, which has been leading the fight along with the families to obtain their release and keeping their profile high in the media, the champagne flowed and there were tears of joy at the news that both were reportedly in good health.

There is no indication a ransom was paid to free the journalists, who had not been seen since January, and for whom hope had been running out.

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