Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Kidnappers demand P20M for fishing firm official
By Edwin G. Espejo
UNIDENTIFIED armed men who are believed to be holding hostage a top executive of a local fishing firm are reportedly asking P20 million for his release, a source told Sun.Star last week.
Elemedo Quesada, 69, senior vice president of the RD Group of Companies, was last seen in the afternoon of September 17.
Sources said abductors of Quesada contacted his family the following day and issued their demand.
Quesada's vehicle was later recovered by police authorities in Digos City.
Police here have imposed a news blackout on the incident.
Rodrigo Rivera Sr., president and general manager of RD Group, declined to issue any statement.
He, however, told Sun.Star that the kidnappers have not demanded any ransom from the company.
Quesada, whose friendship and association with Rivera dates back to their college days and tenure at the former International Bank of Asia and America, hails from Cotabato City and is related by affinity to the Sinsuats of Maguindanao.
A source who spoke on condition of anonymity said Quesada has been involved in treasure hunting activities and may have crossed paths with his associates.
The same source, however, said the RD Group has nothing to do with Quesada's treasure hunting activities.
As of press time last week, Quesada remains missing and negotiation with his abductors are still reportedly going on.
Police authorities are still looking for motives other than the kidnap for ransom angle.
Police Regional Director German Doria was quoted as saying that Quesada was not included in the list of possible kidnap victims.
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(September 25, 2006 issue)
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