A group of 11 Russians, who were detained in Tunisia last November on charges of “terrorism,” have been freed and are set to return home, Russian state media reported on Friday.
The individuals were found near Tunisia’s border with Algeria, with Russian media describing them as tourists. However, Tunisian authorities reportedly seized equipment from them that did “not align with their stated tourist intentions,” according to Russia’s embassy in Tunis.
Neither Russia nor Tunisia have provided further details regarding the case.
The group was held under suspicion of being involved in terrorist activities, although they were never formally charged. According to TASS, the Russians have now been released and are scheduled to leave Tunisia on Friday.
“Tickets have been arranged for them, and they will depart on two separate flights during the day,” the Russian embassy stated.
State media in Russia reported that the group had been visiting Roman ruins in the municipality of Haidra, located near the Algerian border.
Tunisia remains a popular destination for Russian tourists, particularly since Moscow’s military actions in Ukraine have limited their travel options. Tunisia offers a relatively inexpensive alternative and provides visa-free access for Russian citizens.
However, Haidra is not typically included on regular tourist itineraries, despite being home to some of the oldest Roman ruins in northern Africa.
