Philippines: Abu Sayyaf militants kill abducted Dutch national in Sulu province May 31

Event

Abu Sayyaf militants shot kidnapped Dutch national during clashes with security forces in the village of Pansul (Sulu province) at approximately 08:00 (local time) on Friday, May 31. The hostage reportedly tried to escape his captors before being shot by one of them. Six militants were also killed during the raid by security forces, and 12 others were wounded.

Similar clashes are likely in the Sulu Archipelago over the near term.

Context

The Dutch national was captured in February 1, 2012, when five armed gunmen boarded the boat carrying him, his companion, a Swiss national, and their Filippino guide in Panglima Sugala township. The two were later able to escape.

Abu Sayyaf is an Islamic State (IS)-affiliated jihadist militant group operating primarily in the southern Philippines. The group's criminal and terrorist activities include kidnappings, bombings, and beheadings in western Mindanao.

Advice

Individuals in Sulu province, and in the southern Philippines more generally, are advised to monitor the situation, remain vigilant for militant activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.