Govt seeks for release of four hostages

The Indonesian military (TNI) is engaged in intelligence operation to seek the release of four citizens held hostage by the Philippines-based Abu Sayyaf terror group, according to reports.

This was said by TNI?s spokesperson Tatang Sulaiman, Berita Satu reported on Monday.

He made the statement following the release of ten hostages by the terror group. The terror group captured them and then held them hostage at the end of March when a barge belonging to PT Patria Maritime Lines passed the southern sea of the Philippines carrying around 7,500 tons of coal owned by PT Antang Gunung Meratus.

The terror group demanded Rp 15 billion in ransom for their release. Minister of Foreign Affairs Retno Marsudi, who together with TNI?s Commander Gen. Gatot Nurmantyo and Minister of State Secretary Pratikno reported to President Joko Widodo the release of the 10 hostages, said the hostages have been released thanks to efforts through governmental and informal channels involving individuals. She however did not identify the individuals.

Former President Megawati Soekarnoputri however said the release of the hostages should not be considered as a success because based on information she received, ransom was paid for their release, Kompas reported. (*)