PARIS (AP) - A French official close to the president says seven French citizens have been kidnapped in Cameroon, including four children.

The official requested anonymity because of presidential policy. Another French official close to the embassy in Cameroon said the group was believed to have been taken from northern Cameroon to Nigeria.

French forces launched a military operation in nearby Mali, and the latest kidnapping adds to fears of general instability and danger toward Westerners in the region. Before Tuesday, there were at least eight French citizens being held in the region, including at least one who was taken in Nigeria.

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