Abu Sayyaf bandits are reportedly demanding P500 million in ransom for a German hostage.
Sub-commander Alhabsi Misaya disclosed their demand through text messages when they released photographs of Juergen Kantner.
In his short message, Misaya did not specify any deadline or issue any threat against the victim’s life if their demand is not met.
Armed Forces Western Mindanao Command spokesman Maj. Filemon Tan Jr. said they have not received any ransom demand for Kantner but described the amount as “incredible.”
However, Tan said they have received intelligence reports confirming the claims of Abu Sayyaf spokesman Muamar Askali alias Abu Rami that Kantner is with them in Sulu after the militants released his photograph as proof of life.
They cannot say if the victim is alive as no corroborating newspaper can authenticate the actual date of the photograph, he added.
Tan said the photograph was only released late last week.
“In the picture, there is big probability that it was really Kantner and he was alive during that time,” he said.
“But we have doubt if he is still alive because in the picture it showed how he was tied.
“They showed proof of life but we cannot validate that in the absence of proof that during that day the victim is really alive.”
Tan believs the motive of the Abu Sayyaf in releasing the photograph is to negotiate for ransom.
The release of the photograph was also good as it showed the victim is alive and they have a chance to rescue, “which is important on our side.”
“Anyway, whatever his (Kantner) status, the troops will keep on conducting the operations. We must remember that as far as the military is concerned, our ‘verb’ against Abu Sayyaf group is to destroy them,” he said.
http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2016/11/22/1646184/abus-want-p500-m-german-hostage
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