Abus kidnap 2 construction workers in Sulu

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – Suspected Abu Sayyaf gunmen kidnapped two workers of a private construction firm Monday afternoon in Patikul town, Sulu, a military official said.

Col. Jose Joriel Cenabre, commander of the Joint Task Force Sulu and 2nd Marine Brigade, said Espada Sali, a truck driver, and his helper who was not identified, were flagged down by 10 gunmen at about 2 p.m. in Sitio Santol, Barangay Latih.

Cenabre said one of the kidnappers was identified as Roger Saji.

The kidnappers and their captives were said to have fled toward the nearby  Barangay Maligay.

The kidnapping came 17 days after the same group snatched a truck driver and his companion in the same village. The victims were released five days later, reportedly after paying ransom.

Cenabre said intelligence units have been mobilized to track down the suspects and their captives.