Xinhua:
BAGHDAD, Jan. 22 (Xinhuanet) — Eight Chinese hostages held by Iraqi insurgents have been released, the Al-Arabiya television station said Saturday, citing a statement by their captors.
“The eight Chinese were freed and handed to the Committee of Muslim Scholars,” it reported.
Meanwhile, Al-Jazeera TV also reported that the Chinese hostages had been released by the armed group.
The report was updated shortly after it was published:
BAGHDAD, Jan. 22 — The Chinese embassy in Iraq confirmed on Saturday that the eight Chinese hostages held by Iraqi insurgents since Tuesday had been released.
One can only speculate about what went on to secure their release.
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