India, Oct. 30 -- At least 16 children and one woman were rescued on Thursday afternoon after being held hostage by a man inside an acting studio in Mumbai's Powai area. The accused was shot dead during the rescue operation. Follow LIVE updates here.

The rescue operation involved coordinated efforts by the Mumbai Police and the Fire Brigade, lasting over an hour. All the children were handed over to their guardians.

According to ANI, which cited the Mumbai Police, the accused was identified as Rohit Arya.

Senior Inspector of Powai Police, Jeevan Sonawane, said that the accused appeared to be mentally ill.

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Hindustan Times....