Abductors of 4 MSU tutors impose more demands

MARAWI CITY — Apart from a P2-million ransom, the kidnappers of four teachers of the Mindanao State University (MSU) also want the MSU president ousted from office.

The abductors, all former security guards of MSU, are also demanding the payment of their back wages, the return of firearms which the military seized from MSU security men, and that no military action be taken against them.

Dr. Camar Umpa, MSU president, is still in Metro Manila.

Lanao del Sur Gov. Mamintal Adiong, chairman of the Crisis Management Council, said he got information about the kidnappers’ demands from his men in the field.

Adiong said he could not pinpoint the exact location of the kidnappers and their captives because they have been moving from one place to another.

Adiong said he expects his emissary to get in touch with the kidnappers anytime soon.

On the other hand, Col. Ernesto Boac, commander of the Army’s 401st Infantry Brigade, said the military will only go into action after all peaceful means have been exhausted.

"The rules (of engagement) call for military action only when all peaceful means to resolve the crisis are exhausted and only when the lives of the victims are in imminent danger," he said.

The four teachers were snatched from a jeepney bound for Iligan City last Sept. 13.