Rebels in Colombia have handed over sixty-two child guerrillas to the authorities.

Officials said the children -- who are between twelve and sixteen years old -- had been serving in the ranks of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia for up to three years.

They said the children would be given education and protection to help them return to civilian life.

The handover came as the rebel group resumed peace talks with the government after a three-month suspension.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service