Abu hostages sighted in Sulu

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines  – The military has confirmed fresh sightings of foreign and local hostages held separately by Abu Sayyaf bandits in Sulu. 

Lt. Gen. Rustico Guerrero, chief of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), said yesterday they were continuously monitoring the exact locations of the victims to prepare the troops for a rescue mission.

Guerrero declined to give the dates of the sightings so as not to compromise the ground operation.

“We have to consider always the safety of the hostages,” he said.

The military official said at least 10 hostages, including five foreigners, remain in the hands of the Abu Sayyaf.