By DPA
Kabul : An unknown armed group Monday released 10 Afghan de-miners in southeastern Paktia province after holding them captive for five days in Said Karam district area, officials said.
Ten of 13 de-miners of the Afghan Technical Consultant (ATC), a non-governmental organization, were released just after midnight, Din Muhammad Darvesh, spokesman for the provincial administration, told DPA. “They were released by mediation of the local elders,” he added.
The team kidnapped Sep 6 included two doctors, eight mine clearers and drivers and assistants.
Gulam Dastagir Rustamyar, provincial deputy police chief, confirmed the release of 10 de-miners, and said, “We are waiting for the safe release of the other three men.”
Rustamyar said the team was kidnapped by criminal gangs.