2 more Eastman case suspects identified

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — Police have identified two more suspects in the kidnapping of American national Elliot Onil Eastman in Sibuco, Zamboanga del Norte more than two weeks ago.

The suspects are both natives of Sibuco and were among those listed as “John Does” in a case filed before the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor, according to Brig. Gen. Bowenn Joey Masauding, Zamboanga peninsula police director.

Eastman, 26, who is married to a Filipina, was seized by unidentified men in Sitio Tungawan, Barangay Poblacion on Oct. 17.

The suspects, who posed as police officers, were initially believed to be remnants of the Abu Sayyaf bandit group.

Masauding said the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor has received the supplemental affidavits of the witnesses and other pieces of evidence linking the suspects to the kidnapping.

“Both are believed to be directly involved in the kidnapping. These newly identified suspects, along with three others who were previously identified, are currently being pursued,” Masauding said.

Last week, two suspects surrendered and another was captured. They were placed under police custody after the filing of kidnapping charges against them.

Lt. Col. Helen Galvez, spokesperson for the Zamboanga peninsula police, said the police critical investigation management task group has launched a manhunt for the kidnappers.

Galvez said investigators have not received any proof of life for Eastman.

Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and report any information that may help locate the kidnappers and the victim.