Security forces search for abducted gas station owner

From the Mindanao Examiner (Sep 13): Security forces search for abducted gas station owner

Security forces have launched an operation to rescue a gas station owner who was abducted in Lanao del Norte province in southern Philippines, officials said on Tuesday.

Officials said the 57-year old Clarita Belisario was snatched by gunmen while travelling in Linamon town on Monday. Belisario’s family own a gas station in the town, but authorities said no individual or group claimed responsibility for the abduction.

Rebel and criminal groups are actively operating in Lanao del Norte and neighboring provinces where ransom kidnappings are not uncommon. The woman’s family did not give any statement and or whether a ransom has been demanded by her abductors.

The gunmen escaped with the woman in several vehicles, however, it was unclear if the cars had been stolen and used to commit the crime.

Police and military were searching for the victim in Lanao del Norte and nearby Lanao del Sur province in the Muslim autonomous region.

http://mindanaoexaminer.com/security-forces-search-for-abducted-gas-station-owner/