Kathmandu, February 26:

Maoists have recently abducted hundreds of civilians, including students, from different parts of the country, according to a press release issued by the Ministry of Defence today.

The Maoists abducted 50 students and two teachers from Panchakanya Primary School of Khate while over 70 civilians were abducted from Kolti area of Bajura district, it said. Maoists also abducted students from twom different schools in Dhading.

Meanwhile, an HNS report from Taplejung said security forces arrested Pasang Sherpa, 17, alias Suman, a member of the “19th Battalion A company C Section” of the Maoists from near the British Gurkha Welfare Office yesterday.