The Pakistani Taliban say 25 boys they have abducted were kidnapped as a punishment for pro-government tribesmen who have been fighting the militants.

Dozens of boys from the Mamund tribe were on an outing in the tribal region of Bajaur, along the Afghan border, when they were abducted on Thursday.

Family members and tribal elders are reported to be involved in efforts to secure the boys' release.

Members of the Mamund tribe live on both sides of the border.

'Devastated'

A Taliban spokesperson, Ehsanullah Ehsan, said the mass kidnapping had been planned, as the militants had advance knowledge that the boys would be visiting a scenic picnic spot during the Muslim Eid al-Fitr holidays.

He said the fate of the boys would be decided by the Taliban Shura (committee) from Bajaur.