Islamabad, Pakistan (BBN)- Suspected militants on Monday abducted at least 400 students including their relatives of a military-run college in the country’s northwestern tribal region, officials said.
The abduction took place in North Waziristan when they were returning home by mini buses after the last day of school at the Razmak Cadet College.
The militants seized over 30 vehicles carrying 443 students and their relatives who were leaving the ceremony marking the last day of school, a local police official reportedly confirmed.
The police official also said 22 students in two vehicles managed to escape; the remaining 421 students and their relatives are still missing.
The abduction came as the Pakistan’s troops forces successfully regained control of most of the country's northwestern regions from the suspected Taliban militants after a month-long offensive.
BBN/SS/SI/AD-02June09-3:25 am (BST)