The Abu Sayyaf Group on Saturday afternoon released Norwegian national Kjartan Sekkingstad, almost a year of holding the victim captive.
Major Filemon Tan, spokesperson of the Armed Forces' Western Mindanao Command, said Sekkingstad was released around 4 p.m. in Sulu
Tan did not provide additional information on the release.
He said Sekkingstad will be brought to the provincial capitol in Jolo town.
Earlier reports said Sekkingstad was released by the bandits in Sulu through Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) commander Tahil Sali.
Sekingstad was taken by gunmen, along with Canadians Canadians Robert Hall and John Ridsdel and Filipina Marites Flor, in Samal Island on Sept. 21, 2015.
The Abu Sayaf Group beheaded the two Canadian nationals and released Flor last June 24.
Tan said in a statement that the Norwegian's release was "an offshoot" of the military's intensified offensive, with the assistance of the MNLF against the Abu Sayyaf.
Simultaneous land, air, naval and police operations complemented each other putting pressure on the ASG, he said.
Last month, President Rodrigo Duterte said that ransom had been paid for the release of the Norwegian hostage.
Post a Comment