Pro-Taliban militants free 8 captives in Pakistan

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KOHAT, Jul 25 (Reuters): Pro-Taliban militants freed eight of the dozens of paramilitary troops and government officials they have been holding hostage for nearly two weeks in northwestern Pakistan, officials and a negotiator said Friday.

The release of the prisoners came two days after the military ended an operation in and around the town of Hangu in the region.

The crackdown was launched after militants killed at least 15 paramilitary troops in an ambush and kidnapped nearly 50 soldiers and government officials to press for the release of their comrades. One government official was freed Wednesday.

The release of hostages came after a group of tribal elders held talks with the militants.

Mufti Janan, a tribal negotiator, said efforts were under way to secure the release of the other hostages.

"The militants are demanding release of at least three of their men including, Rafi Uddin," he said.