Algerian 'copters strike hostage crisis gas plant: report

Published January 17th, 2013 - 12:41 GMT

Reports indicate two Japanese workers were injured in the attack. (AFP)

Algerian helicopters have attacked the gas complex where Islamists seized dozens of hostages on Thursday, according to one of the kidnappers.

Two Japanese hostages were reportedly injured in the attack, according to Mauritania’s ANI news agency, which has close ties to the group that has claimed responsibility for the kidnappings.

Reports earlier on Thursday indicated some of the hostages had been fitted with improvised explosive belts. The group threatened to blow up the gas plant if the army attacked.