P2-million ransom sought for Marawi trader

Marawi City, Philippines  – The kidnappers of a local businessman who was snatched last Aug. 31 are demanding at least P2 million in exchange for his release, police said.

Superintendent Cosanie Derogongan, Lanao del Sur police director, said he has received cell phone calls and text messages about the kidnappers’ demand and this was relayed to the family of kidnap victim Abdulcarim Magarang.

Magarang was on his way to the Padian market on board a pedicab when five men seized and forced him into a waiting white Honda Civic with no license plate.

There is no word if there are ongoing negotiations for his release, Derogongan said.