Sayyaf gunmen release 2 captive laborers in Sulu

ZAMBOANGA CITY - - Suspected Abu Sayyaf gunmen freed their two captive laborers unharmed after  the latter allegedly paid a ransom in the hinterland of Patikul town, Sulu, according to police Wednesday.

The  victims – Awan Usman and Boy Nunung, both laborers of a local construction firm, were freed about 4 p.m Tuesday at Barangay Bauno Bangkal, Patikul town, according to Senior Superintendent Antonio Freyra, Sulu provincial police director.

The victims were fetched by an unidentified person on board a motorcycle with no plate number and dropped them along the road crossing near the Jolo fire station.

The two victims were seized last Friday morning by eight Abu Sayyaf gunmen wearing masks at Barangay Latih, Patikul.

The police said they are investigating whether ransom in the form of a “board and lodging” fee was reportedly paid in exchange for the victim's release. - Roel Pareño