ARMM gov moves for safe release of 2 sisters

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Gov. Mujiv Hataman yesterday called for a meeting with local government and security officials to discuss plans for the possible release of two Filipina-Algerian sisters kidnapped in Sulu province last Saturday.

Hataman said police identified the kidnappers of Nadjoua and Linda Bansil as members of the Abu Sayyaf bandit group.

The Bansils, who are Tausug natives of this city and Sulu but with Algerian descent, were shooting footage for an indie film when they were snatched in Barangay Liang, Patikul town by seven gunmen.

Hataman said the kidnappers might have mistaken the victims for foreigners because of their looks. He said they have yet to receive word from the kidnappers.

The governor expressed belief the kidnappers would demand ransom in exchange for the release of the sisters.

He said he had talked with ARMM police regional director Chief Superintendent Noel delos Reyes who told him they were tracking down the victims. 

Hataman said the result of the security conference would be forwarded to Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa, the chairman of the anti-terrorism council, and Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas.

He said he had called Ochoa, who agreed to the holding of the conference.