Kidnappers demand P2-M ransom for 3 Basilan captives

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Suspected Abu Sayyaf gunmen have reportedly demanded P2-million ransom in exchange for the safe release of three hostages, its new batch of captives held in the jungle, according to Basilan police.

The ransom was reportedly relayed to the families of the three victims – Wilma Sumergido, her 14-year-old son, and driver Ronillo Ando who were abducted in July 20 in Barangay, Lamitan City of Basilan.

Basilan provincial police said it was not, however clear if the kidnappers have given a time frame for the delivery of the ransom or if warning has been issued against the captives.

The Basilan provincial crisis committee has designated a team of religious leaders to negotiate and appeal for the release of the victims.

The abduction of the three civilians have already brought to 10 kidnap victims in just a month since June and the third kidnapping case to hit the province aside from the three other cases that occurred in this city but the hostages were brought to Basilan.

Basilan provincial police director Senior Superintendent Salik Macapantar said police forces have been placed on standby for the rescue and systematical assault against the kidnap gang members.