Philippines: Western governments warn of kidnapping threat on Palawan August 14

Event

On Tuesday, August 14, the US and UK governments issued statements warning of a kidnapping threat on Palawan. The warnings are in response to intelligence reports that the terrorist group Abu Sayyaf was planning a kidnapping raid on the island.

Context

Abu Sayyaf is a radical Islamist group and Islamic State (IS) affiliate that has been involved for years in kidnappings, bombings, and various other violent activities in southern and western Philippines, particularly in the provinces of Basilan, Sulu, Tawa-Tawa, and Palawan. The group is known to conduct kidnapping raids and is estimated to have ten hostages, including five foreign nationals. The Filipino military has reportedly foiled abduction plots on Palawan by the group in the past.

Advice

Individuals in the Philippines, particularly in Palawan, are advised to remain vigilant at all times and report any suspicious objects or behavior to the relevant authorities.