THE Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) released on Friday, June 21, nine fishermen who were abducted off the waters of Lahad Datu in Sabah Malaysia, a police official said Sunday, June 23.

Philippine National Police spokesperson Colonel Bernard Banac identified the released kidnap victims as Mohammad Jumdatul Harun, 42; Abdulnarar Akmad Mohammad, 33; Osri Harun Hudjaima, 13; Kasim Ablayan, 16; Samsol Dungun Asmann, 20; Adzmar Aminosa Sinnung, 26; Gun Abdillah Supian, 29; Amil Pulalun, 28; and Simal Aharol 26, all Tausug and Badjao.

Banac said personnel of Talipao Municipal Police Station (MPS) spotted and rescued the victims who were then walking on the roadside.

"Accordingly, the victims were forcibly taken by the ASG members but were later released because they have no money to give in exchange for their release," said Banac.

The victims were brought to Talipao Municipal Police Station for proper disposition.

Banac said the victims were taken by ASG members while fishing off the waters of Lahad Datu, Sabah, Malaysia on June 18 at 2:45 a.m. (SunStar Philippines)