Abu Sayyaf gives 2-hour extension of deadline to authorities

MANILA, Philippines – The Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) extended its deadline to authorities by two hours – from 3 pm to 5 pm – on Friday, October 17, confirmed Chief Superintendent Agrimero Cruz, commander of the police’s Anti-Kidnapping Task Force in Sulu.

The Abu Sayyaf announced the extention in an interview with a local radio station, said Cruz.

The military welcomed the extension. “All extensions are good for the victims, even how short the time,” said Colonel Allan Arrojado, the commander in the island. There are now about 3,000 troops in Sulu, according to the military.

The Abu Sayyaf has threatened to behead German hostage Stefan Viktor Okonek, a 71-year-old doctor, if their demands are not met – P250 million in ransom and Germany’s withdrawal from the US-led war against the Islamic State (ISI) in the Middle East.

Okonek was on a holiday in the Philippines with Henrike Dielen when they were abducted from their yacht off the coast of Palawan and brought to Sulu. Dielen has been separated from Okonek.

Military spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Harold Cabunoc reiterated the troops are just waiting for orders to rescue the hostages. 

“We are ready anytime. We have been preparing to do our part to solve this problem,” Cabunoc said. 

Cabunoc reiterated why it’s important not to pay ransom. 

“If we will pay ransom, that will encourage more abductions. This must be addressed appropriately. The solution must be presented by the Special Action Committee after consulting different stakeholders. I undestand they have done this in the past days,” Cabunoc said. 

– Rappler.com