From the Philippine Star (Mar 31): Basilan
vice governor’s help sought for release of 2 European hostages
ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – Swiss and Holland officials have reportedly
sought the assistance of Basilan Vice Gov. Al-Rasheed Sakahalul for the possible
release of two European hostages in Sulu after Abu Sayyaf bandits freed
Australian Warren Rodwell last week.
During Rodwell’s send off to Manila, Sakahalul said three European officials,
whom he failed to identify, approached him and asked if he could negotiate with
the kidnappers for the possible release of two foreign bird watchers kidnapped
in Tawi-Tawi last year.
Swiss Lorenzo Vinceguerre, 47, and Dutch Elwold Horn, 52, were bird watching
in Panglima Sugala, Tawi-Tawi in February 2012 when they were kidnapped along
with Filipino Ivan Sarenas, who managed to escape.
The victims were allegedly held hostage by Abu Sayyaf militants in the nearby
island province of Sulu.
“We had a meeting. They were asking for my assistance. It seemed they were
envious that Rodwell has been freed,” Sakahalul said.
The Basilan vice governor did not promise to help the European officials,
saying the kidnapping happened outside his jurisdiction.
But he said he is willing to help if there is a clearance from the government
for him to work on the negotiation for the release of Horn and Vinceguerre.
“It really feels good to help without expecting anything in return, but so
sad and painful to be accused of skimming,” he added.
Sakalahul had been instrumental in at least 10 successful hostage
negotiations in Basilan since 1995.
http://www.philstar.com/nation/2013/03/31/925143/basilan-vice-governors-help-sought-release-2-european-hostages
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