Businesswoman kidnapped by Abu Sayyaf released in Sulu

ZAMBOANGA CITY – One of the seven victims who were earlier kidnapped by Abu Sayyaf terrorists is now free.

Colonel Gerry Besana, public affairs officer of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Western Mindanao Command, confirmed the release of Helen Roda, a businesswoman kidnapped in August this year in Sirawai, Zamboanga del Norte.

Besana said he has no details to share about Roda’s release yet, except for the confirmation of her release.

“I have no detail but what I know, she’s been released yesterday,” Besana said.

Police reported that Roda was freed on November 16 around 2:30 pm in Barangay Anuling, Patikul town, Sulu after she was held captive by the group of Abu Sayyaf sub leaders Mujier Yadah and Indam Yadah.

“(The) KV (kidnap victim) was released in exchange for a (reported) ransom money amounting to P1M (million). (The) ransom was delivered by two unidentified negotiators who also escorted the victim and brought her to Zamboanga City onboard a passenger vessel,” a police report said.

Roda and her husband Rufo were kidnapped on August 31 in Piakan village, Sirawai town, Zamboanga del Norte.

Rufo reportedly paid P2.5M for his release on October 17. /muf