Armed Maoists continued abductions of political opponents despite talks between the government and rebels to end a communist insurgency that has claimed more than 1,800 lives in nearly six years.

Insurgents abducted three activists of the UML main opposition in parliament from Kuiranchowk village in Dhading district Thursday, police said. One of the three abducted was freed one day later.

Armed Maoists also kidnapped Faishi Ghale RPP village chief of Tipling in the same district Friday, the party said.