Kidnapped Zambo trader freed

MANILA, Philippines - A businessman who was kidnapped in Zamboanga City last Jan. 29 was released by his captors last Saturday night in a remote village in Payao, Zamboanga Sibugay after his family reportedly paid P1-million ransom. 

Reports reaching Camp Crame said Joel Indino Jr. was recovered at around 7:30 p.m. Saturday by elements of Task Force Indino of the Zamboanga Sibugay police shortly after his release.

Indino was then taken to the Zamboanga Sibugay police headquarters for medical checkup and debriefing.

Indino’s family, according to a police report, paid at least P1 million to secure his freedom. Police, however, said the family would not comment on this.

Indino was seized by armed men while on a business trip in Zamboanga City last Jan. 29.