Militants in Pakistan release 250 schoolchildren after taking them hostage
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Monday, January 28, 2008
- 15 July 2008: Nine US troops killed in Afghanistan as Taliban attack base
- 13 July 2008: Sixteen killed in Pakistan during Taliban ambush
- 7 July 2008: Suicide bomber attacks Indian Embassy in Kabul, killing at least 41
- 4 July 2008: Pakistani scientist says government knew about nuclear shipment to North Korea
- 13 June 2008: Four Pakistani policemen shot dead
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.
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
