Gunmen abduct businessman's 9-year-old daughter

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — Five unidentified gunmen abducted a businessman's 9-year old daughter late Friday in the island town of Olutanga, Zamboanga Sibugay.

Police identified the victim as Princess Jewel Mariel Nique, a grade 3 pupil and daughter of a general merchandise operator who runs a snackhouse in Barangay Solar.

Two of the suspects pretended as customers before two other men came in with their M16 rifles concealed in a sack. They forcibly took the young victim about 6 p.m. before the presence of her horrified parents identified as Emban and Aming Nique.

The suspects dragged the victim toward another companion waiting on a speedboat, which then sped to the direction of Basilan.

Prior to the escape of the suspects, witnesses heard gun fire that was traced later as alarm shots fired by the victim's family.

Capt. Franco Suelto, spokesman of army's 1st Division, said troops have been alerted to the possible presence of the suspects for the rescue of the young victim.

Police said the kidnappers have not established contact to the victim’s family.