Gunmen kidnap canteen manager

GUNMEN believed to have ties with the Abu Sayyaf bandits have kidnapped a canteen manager in Basilan province, a police official said Monday.

Basilan police director Antonio Mendoza, said the incident took place around 4 p.m. Saturday in Idris Drive, Maganda village, Lamitan City.

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Mendoza identified the victim as Examinda Lindio, 43, who manages the canteen at the Lamitan National High School, and wife of a teacher of the said school.

Mendoza said Lindio was earlier reported to be missing and the kidnapping incident was only confirmed when the kidnappers led by Pulah Montong called the victim's relatives Sunday.

Montong's group has taken Lindio to Barangay Langgung in Mohammad Ajul municipality, Mendoza said.

Montong is a known leader of lawless group based in Mohammad Ajul town and believed to have strong ties with the Abu Sayyaf bandits.

Mendoza said Lindio's family informed them that the kidnappers are demanding P2 million for the victim’s release.

He said they have activated a Task Force Lindio to rescue or secure Lindio’s safe release.

At the same time, the Lamitan City Mayor Roderick Furigay has activated a Crisis Management Committee (CMC) to work hand-in-hand with the task force in addressing the latest kidnapping case in Basilan.

Mendoza designated Chief Inspector Rolando Democrito, Lamitan City police chief, to head the Task Force Lindio to rescue and help the CMC in seeking the safe release of the victim.