The raid was preceded by an attack on the local police station, when two vehicles were blown up, in the town of Jama'are, some 125 miles (200km) north of the state capital, Bauchi.

BBC: Nigeria foreign workers abducted in Bauchi state - police

Then on April 22nd 1997, all but one who suffered a heart attack, were freed in a dramatic raid by Peruvian commandos.

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Even a helicopter crash on the night of the raid did not upset the American Navy Seals' efficient attack.

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