Palace rejects Abu ransom demand for release of 2 policemen

“We don’t pay ransom.”

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque maintained this government policy on Thursday after a group linked with the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) demanded P5 million for the release of two female policemen abducted in Sulu.

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Oscar Albayalde revealed on Wednesday that the splinter faction of the ASG put up a ransom for the release of the policewomen.

READ: Albayalde: Abductors of 2 Sulu cops linked to Abu splinter group 

President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday said he would ask the help of Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founding chairman Nur Misuari to help rescue the two abducted policewoman, including two civilians.

“Eh kasi ang balita ko ASG naman ‘yan eh, but we all know that the MNLF still has a presence in Sulu. So I think the President would want the MNLF to assist in the recovery of these two hostage victims,” Roque said.

The government has long adhered to no-ransom policy on kidnap victims of terrorists, particularly the ASG.