Palace rejects ransom for kidnapped cops

MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang rejected yesterday the demand of Abu Sayyaf bandits to pay P5 million in exchange for the release of two policewomen they kidnapped in Barangay Liang, Patikul, Sulu on Sunday.

“As far as I know, we don’t pay ransom,” presidential spokesman Harry Roque Jr.  said.

Roque said President Duterte is asking Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) chairman Nur Misuari to intervene for the release of the captives.

“I received reports that the Abu Sayyaf is involved...  We know that the MNLF still has a presence in Sulu... The President wants the MNLF to assist in the recovery of the victims,” he said.

Police Officer 2 Benierose Alvarez, PO1 Dinah Gumahad, Jakosalem Ahamad Blas and Faizal Ahidiji were in a tricycle when they were taken by around a dozen gunmen.

A man who introduced himself as a commander of the Abu Sayyaf contacted the families of the two policewomen and demanded ransom.

Italian priest’s kidnapper falls

Meanwhile, in Lanao del Sur, a suspect in the kidnapping of Italian missionary Giancarlo Bossi in Zamboanga Sibugay in 2007 was arrested yesterday.

Latif Rajahmuda Cototan was collared in Picong, Lanao del Sur by personnel of the 6th Infantry Battalion and provincial police.

Bossi was released 10 days after he was snatched following clashes between his captors and pursuing Army and police personnel. At least 14 soldiers were killed, 10 of them beheaded. – With John Unson