Militants in Pakistan release 250 schoolchildren after taking them hostage
Monday, January 28, 2008
- 16 January 2012: Dozens killed, injured after blast hits Shias in Punjab, Pakistan
- 1 December 2011: A portrait of Scotland: Gallery reopens after £17.6 million renovation
- 10 October 2011: Pakistani journalist found dead in home
- 23 August 2011: Pakistan government must investigate killings and abductions of journalists, says UN
- 12 August 2011: Three killed amongst Birmingham, England riots
Officials in Pakistan have confirmed that at least 250 schoolchildren between 12 and 18 years old and several teachers were taken hostage by at least seven militants inside a high school in Domail. After negotiations, the children were released.
"There were 200 to 250 children in the school and about seven militants," said Hamid Nawaz, the Interior Minister of Pakistan.
"The criminals have surrendered to the jirga along with their weapons. No children have been hurt and all have been released," said Javel Iqbal Cheema a spokesman for the Interior Ministry. At least one officer was injured and one militant was killed in the battle.
According to reports, the militants were fighting police officers after kidnapping a "health worker" when they ran into the school for shelter. They were allegedly armed with several weapons including rocket launchers and grenades.
[edit] Sources
- Bonnie Malkin. "Militants start to release 250 child hostages" — The Daily Telegraph, January 28, 2008
- Zeeshan Haider. "Gunmen free Pakistani school children, surrender" — Reuters, January 28, 2008
- "Militants hold up to 250 Pakistani children-minister" — Reuters, January 28, 2008
