State-run APS news agency says 12 Algerian and foreign workers have died since rescue efforts began on Thursday.

BBC: Algeria siege: Hostage nations concerned over situation

State-run APS news agency said those freed at the In Amenas installation included 573 Algerians and "around 100" out of 132 foreign workers.

BBC: Scotland

The APS news agency quoted an unidentified security source for the new death toll and said the fatalities include both Algerian and foreign workers.

NPR: Algeria: 12 Hostages Have Died In The Siege

Four foreign hostages were freed in an Algerian military operation but there were a number of "victims", the official Algerian APS news agency said.

BBC: Algeria hostage Belfast man Stephen McFaul is free

"It is out of the question to allow foreign security forces to handle the security of our oil facilities, " he said, quoted by Algeria's APS news agency.

BBC: Algeria crisis: Hostage-takers 'taken alive' at gas plant

The APS news agency cited local officials as saying two Britons and two Filipinos were killed in the military operation, after two other people - a Briton and an Algerian - died on Wednesday when the militants ambushed a bus that was taking workers to the local airport.

BBC: Algeria hostage crisis: 'About 10 Britons' remain captive

State news agency APS said 685 Algerian workers and 107 out of 132 foreigners working at the plant had been freed.

BBC: Algeria hostage Belfast man Stephen McFaul with family

State news agency APS said 685 Algerian workers and 107 out of 132 foreigners working at the plant had been freed, citing interior ministry figures.

BBC: Algeria crisis: Hostage death toll 'could rise'