Mock Executions Probe At Summer Camp

Leaders at a French summer camp are being investigated after photos were found of them mimicking hostage executions and scenes of torture, local authorities have said.

One of the pictures shows a man kneeling with a knife to his throat, surrounded by people wearing balaclavas.

It is one of about 20 images discovered by the municipality of Colombes, just outside Paris, which organised the camp.

"They have been suspended from their jobs and disciplinary action is under way," said Colombes mayor Nicole Goueta.

The photos were taken during the camp in August on an island in Brittany, in northwest France.

The municipality was putting together an exhibition of pictures when they came across the images on a USB stick.

Another of the photos was of a child sitting in a corner looking scared. However, it was unclear whether "he was witnessing a horrific scene or if he was being punished," said Ms Goueta.

"It is now up to the judicial system to find out if these men are susceptible to radical Islam."