Two French Commandos Killed During Operation To Save U.S. Hostage

Two French commandos were killed during a rescue operation in the African nation of Burkina Faso. French authorities announced that two French citizens, an American woman, and a South Korean woman were freed after being taken captive in the neighboring country of Benin.

French Armed Forces Minister Florence Parly identified the two commandos who lost their lives as Cédric de Pierrepont and Alain Bertoncello.

"I am thinking of their families, their brothers in arms. The whole nation bows to their courage," she said in a tweet.

Officials identified the two French citizens as Patrick Picque and Laurent Lassimouillas, who were taken on May 1st during a safari near the northern border of Benin and Burkina Faso. Officials found the body of their guide in Pendjari National Park along with their burned out vehicle.

They did not release the names of the two women who were rescued.

Officials have not said who was responsible for the kidnappings nor did they given a reason as to why the four individuals were taken.

The United States provided aerial support for the operation but did not send troops in to assist.

The U.S. State Department has issued a travel advisory for Burkina Faso, warning people that the country is a hotbed for terrorism.

"Terrorist groups continue plotting attacks and kidnappings in Burkina Faso and may conduct attacks anywhere with no warning. Targets could include hotels, restaurants, police stations, customs offices, areas at or near mining sites, military posts, and schools."

Photo: French Ministry of Defense