Malaysian police clear Pinay in kidnapping case

MANILA, Philippines - Malaysian police have cleared a Filipina worker of any involvement in her kidnapping and that of a Chinese woman, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said yesterday.

DFA spokesman Charles Jose said the Filipina was cleared based on the statement to police of the Chinese.

“There were suspicions she might be involved in the case,” he said.

Jose said arrangements are being made for the repatriation of Mercy Dayawan, a staff member at the Singamata Resort in Sabah. 

“As soon as operation is completed she will be brought back to the Philippines,” he said.

Jose said Malaysian police had issued a statement that no ransom was paid for the release of the Chinese and Dayawan.

“Based on the statement by the Malaysian police, reportedly there was no ransom paid,” he said.

The police attaché in the Philippine embassy in Kuala Lumpur will escort Dayawan back to the Philippines, the DFA said.

Dayawan and the Chinese were rescued on Friday after they were kidnapped at the Singamata Resort near Semporna, Sabah in April.

The Philippine military said the Abu Sayyaf is the prime suspect in the kidnapping.