BOGOTA, Dec. 20 (UPI) -- Colombian rebels Saturday promised to release five tourists they have been holding hostage since September.
The National Liberation Army informed Colombian radio the four Israelis and one Briton will be released Monday or Tuesday in a "high risk environment," Voice of America reported.
The five were among eight tourists kidnapped Sep. 12 in the northern Sierra Nevada mountains. One hostage escaped and two others were freed in November.
About a week ago, rebel leaders said they delayed plans to free the remaining five by Christmas because of ongoing military operations, VOA said. But on Saturday, a rebel commander said the ELN had committed itself and would honor its word.
The hostages are being held in a remote jungle camp, VOA said.
