Released: After 5 years of captivity by Pakistani militant group, Canadian-American family set free

Caitlan Coleman and Josh Boyle who were kidnapped by militants in 2012. Twitter

An American woman and her family have been freed after being held by a Pakistan-based militant group for five years.

Caitlan Coleman and her family were released after US officials provided recently acquired intelligence on the family's location to Pakistan's government in recent days, according to The Independent.

Coleman, 32, was seven months pregnant when she was abducted by the 'Haqqani network' alongside her Canadian husband Josh Boyle.

'The success underscores the importance of timely intelligence sharing and Pakistan's continued commitment towards fighting this menace through cooperation between two forces against a common enemy,' said a statement from Pakistani officials this morning.

US President Donald Trump appeared to hint of impending news of the family's release during a speech at Coleman's home state of Pennsylvania.

'Something happened today, where a country that totally disrespected us called with some very, very important news,' Trump said.

'And one of my generals came in. They said, "You know, I have to tell you, a year ago they would've never done that." It was a great sign of respect.

'You'll probably be hearing about it over the next few days. But this is a country that did not respect us. This is a country that respects us now. The world is starting to respect us again, believe me.'

Newsletter Stay up to date with Christian Today
News
Young Christians engaging with Bible more, survey finds
Young Christians engaging with Bible more, survey finds

A new report reveals surprising levels of Bible engagement among young people aged 15–30.

Päivi Räsänen to appeal to ECHR after conviction over biblical pamphlet
Päivi Räsänen to appeal to ECHR after conviction over biblical pamphlet

Räsänen's case has been ongoing for years now.

Historic Mozambique church destroyed in extremist attack as church leaders appeal for peace
Historic Mozambique church destroyed in extremist attack as church leaders appeal for peace

Church leaders in northern Mozambique have renewed calls for peace and religious unity after militants destroyed a historic church during a violent raid in Cabo Delgado Province. 

Christians petition for protection of pastors in Colombia following murders
Christians petition for protection of pastors in Colombia following murders

A petition will be presented to the new president.