Mali says Tuareg rebels release 22 government soldiers

The Tuareg, who sometimes collaborate with Islamist extremist movements, captured a large number of Malian soldiers in attacks in April and July.

The government in Bamako has been fighting rebels and separatist movements on several fronts over the past decade, but this spring's attacks on government soldiers were extensive and coordinated.

Since mid-August, nearly 100 Malian soldiers have been released, according to Bamako. The Tuareg separatist movement FLA confirmed the release on Sunday but did not give a number.