Trudeau outraged by 'cold-blooded murder' of Canadian Robert Hall
June 13, 2016 | 10:10pm
MANILA, Philippines — Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Monday condemned the Abu Sayyaf over the likely death of Robert Hall, the second of the Samal Island captives believed to be beheaded by the terror group.
Although still unconfirmed, Trudeau said Canadian officials working with Philippine authorities have "compelling reason to believe" that reports on Hall's death "are, unfortnately, true."
“It is with deep sadness that I have reason to believe that a Canadian citizen, Robert Hall, held hostage in the Philippines since September 21, 2015, has been killed by his captors," he said.
"Canada holds the terrorist group who took him hostage fully responsible for this cold-blooded and senseless murder."
Last April 25, another Canadian, John Ridsdel, who was among the four captives taken from an island resort on Samal Island — along with Hall, Norwegian Kjartan Sekkingstad and Filipina Marites Flor — was beheaded after his ransom deadline ended.
The Abu Sayyaf earlier asked a ransom of P300 million for each of the captives. It later raised its demand to P600 million for the remaining hostages after Ridsdel was killed.
Trudeau said Canada would not pay ransoms for hostages of terror groups as it would endanger the lives of more Canadians.
“The Government’s top priority, and my own as Prime Minister, is the safety and security of Canadian citizens," he said.
“With the tragic loss of two Canadians, I want to reiterate that terrorist hostage-takings only fuel more violence and instability. Canada will not give into their fear mongering tactics and despicable attitude toward the suffering of others."
The Philippines also holds a no-ransom policy.
Trudeau said Canada would continue to work with the Philippines and other international partners to pursue those responsible for the heinous acts and bring them to justice.
He also expressed his condolences to the family and friends of Hall.
“Today marks yet another difficult day for Canada and for Canadians as we grieve as a nation for the loss of both John Ridsdel, who was killed on April 25, and Robert Hall.”
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