AT-KABUL: The Afghan army’s Special Forces in an operation released 35 civilians taken hostage by the Taliban in southern Helmand province, defense ministry said Saturday.
The operation was launched Friday night in the Nad Ali district, it said in a statement.
“The hostages were five women, five men and 25 children,” the statement clarified. However, it did not elaborate how and when were these people taken by the militants.
Provincial officials also confirmed the release, saying the hostages were kept in a Taliban prison.
“The prison was located in a desert between Nad Ali and Marja districts,” it said.
Seven Taliban fighters guarding the prison were arrested during the operation, according to defense ministry.