Abus kidnap 3 construction workers in Basilan

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – Suspected Abu Sayyaf gunmen seized three construction workers in the outskirts of Basilan yesterday, police said.

Edgar Francisco, 40; Sommy Siazon, 17; and Alez Francisco, 18; all residents of Isabela City, were in a dump truck owned by CNJ Construction when at least five Abu Sayyaf bandits seized them  in Barangay Caddayan at 8:35 a.m.

Capt. Eugenio Espino, public affairs chief of the 104th Army Brigade, said the victims were freed after an hour of pursuit operations.

Initial investigation showed that extortion was the motive for the kidnapping. 

Police and the military confirmed the Abu Sayyaf have been threatening to kidnap workers or bomb companies that refuse to give in to their extortion demands.