ROME 10 May (ANA) - An Italian woman who was freed after being taken hostage in Kenya in 2018 has been flown back to Rome. 

Silvia Romano embraced her parents and sister, and was greeted by Italy's prime minister and foreign minister. 

According to Italian media reports, she was freed from suspected al-Shabab militants in an operation near the Somali capital, Mogadishu. 

Italy's secret services were reportedly assisted by counterparts from Turkey and Somalia.

Ms Romano said she was well, both physically and mentally. 

The 25- year- old was seized while working as a volunteer at a Kenyan orphanage in November 2018. 

Her father said he was bursting with joy at her release. 

Church bells were rung and people applauded from their balconies in her hometown of Milan to celebrate her return to Italy.(ANA)

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