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Alert

New concerns for fate of French journalists after kidnapped interpreter found

(RSF/IFEX) - RSF has welcomed the 11 November 2004 rescue of Mohammed al-Joundi, the Syrian driver and interpreter for kidnapped French journalists Christian Chesnot and Georges Malbrunot.

"Al-Joundi's release is a great relief and joy for everyone, especially his family, who have endured months of worry and distress," the organisation said. "We remain shoulder to shoulder with the families of Chesnot and Malbrunot and will continue to campaign tirelessly for their release."

Al-Joundi was kidnapped with the French journalists near Najaf on 20 August. He was found handcuffed in Fallujah by American troops on 11 November. Al-Joundi said he had been separated from the journalists about a month ago and did not know what had become of them.

Al-Joundi said three men in two cars, a white Mercedes and a Korean-made vehicle, kidnapped them on their way to Najaf. A group called the Islamic Army in Iraq later claimed responsibility.

Malbrunot, 41, is a freelance reporter for the French dailies "Le Figaro" and "Ouest-France" and the radio and television station RTL, and Chesnot, 38, is a freelance journalist for radio stations RFI and Radio France.