BP, the company operating the Amenas gas field in Algeria, where Islamist militants took Westerners hostage, released the following statement on the military rescue operation underway:
We have been informed by the UK and Algerian governments that the Algerian army is attempting to take control of the In Amenas site.
The situation remains unclear and we continue to seek updates from the authorities.
Sadly, there have been some reports of casualties but we are still lacking any confirmed or reliable information. There are also reports of hostages being released or escaping.
“Supporting these families is our priority and we are doing all we can to help during this sad and uncertain time,” said Bob Dudley, BP Group Chief Executive. We are in contact with the UK and Algerian Governments and will provide updates as soon as further confirmed information is available.
As a precautionary measure, staged plans are underway to bring a group of non-essential workers out of Algeria.
