Philippines: Authorities rescue abducted Chinese national in Quezon City, Metro Manila, Jan. 22

Event

Authorities rescued a kidnapped Chinese national and killed four alleged abductors at a residential area in Barangay Holy Spirit, Quezon City, Metro Manila, early Jan. 22. The victim's friend had reportedly informed officials about the kidnapping, which occurred late Jan. 21. The background of the victim and the abductors, as well as the site of and the reason for the kidnapping, are unclear.

Context

The threat of kidnapping in Metro Manila remains high, as several organized crime syndicates that focus exclusively on kidnap-for-ransoms operate in and around the area. Criminal groups typically target workers or customers of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) companies, Chinese nationals, East and South Asian expatriates, and short-term travelers, as well as members of the Chinese-Filipino business community and their families. Criminal abductions of Westerners are less common, though the threat remains. Most victims are rescued by authorities or released unharmed relatively quickly after receiving a ransom payment.