She has used Facebook to chat with her roommate and to establish contacts with leaders of the ballroom dancing club that she hopes to join, but she's waiting to meet most of her college friends in person.

CNN: Facebook eases freshmen fears, fosters friendship

The Department of Foreign Affairs said it was providing consular assistance to the family and was in close contact with its international partners and a wide range of other contacts in order to establish the facts of the situation.

BBC: Map of Algeria showing In Amenas

The paper reports that Mlilwana, who admits to 30 car hijackings, is now trying to establish his credentials by returning stolen cars to their rightful owners, using his contacts outside the prison.

BBC: News | Africa | 'Police helped South African car-jacker'