ISIS has released 16 more hostages of the 250 people taken captive almost a year ago. They were released in al-Hasakah governorate of north-eastern Syria, according to media reports.
Almost 150 captives have already been released, after the release of 25 hostages on the Christmas Day. The Assyrian Church of East Relief Organization (ACERO) is continuing its efforts to release the rest of about 100 victims.
ACERO is an organization that works to aid the persecuted Assyrian Christians, and shared the update on the released hostages on their Facebook page.
"The 16 freed hostages, comprising men, women and children, was met and embraced by His Grace Mar Afram Athneil, Bishop of Syria and Chairman of ACERO," said a statement on the organization's Facebook page.
"ACERO continues to play a leading role in supporting the released hostages and their families through the generosity of our supporters and partner organizations."
In February, 2015, the people were taken captives from Khabour River region of Syria.
In October, the IS killed three of the hostages by beheading them, and released the videos of the execution, demanding $23 million to be pain for the remaining captives. After the Assyrian church was unable to pay the fee, it was lowered to $12-$14 million.
