A Maltese man abducted in Libya 47 days ago has been freed from his captors by a militia near Tripoli.

Noel Sciberras, director of a company which administers car parks, was abducted by a gang in Tajoura.

He was released by the Radda militia and appeared to be tired but in relatively good health. He profusely thanked those who secured his release.

The captors had originally demanded a $5 million ransom for his release, according to Radda. It is not known whether any payment was made.

In a Facebook message, the group said elements of its Special Deterrent had proceeded to arrest a gang which had split in two, one to carry out the abduction and the other to guard the kidnapped man.  

It said this gang had abducted many citizens as well as foreigners including the Maltese man, for whom they demanded a ransom of $5m. 

The Rada 'Deterrent' Force was responsible for the control of Mitiga Airport, now the only operational airport in Tripoli.

The Foreign Ministry said in a statement this morning Mr Sciberras was freed early yesterday morning. It congratulated Mr Sciberras and hoped he would now have some time to rest and recover from his trauma.

It thanked all involved in the operation, particularly Marisa Farrugia whose wisdom and diplomacy led to Mr Sciberras's release. The government also thanked the members of the Maltese Secret Service for their assistance.

It said that Mr Sciberras was still in Libya with his rescuers and was expected back in Malta in the coming days.