Pakistani security forces on December 20 launched an operation to rescue hostages held by local Taliban militants at the Counter-Terrorism Police Center in the northwestern city of Bannu, sources told RFE/RL. Militants held in the center took control of the building late on December 19 after snatching weapons from their investigators and taking some of them hostage. Residents said they heard blasts coming from the area of the center. The militants reportedly demanded safe passage to neighboring Afghanistan. To read the original story from RFE/RL's Radio Mashaal, click here.
Pakistan Launches Operation To Release Hostages Held By Militants
Police stand guard along a road they blocked after Taliban militants seized a police station in Bannu on December 19.