Philippine Islamic group releases S. Korean hostage

By Park Sae-jin Posted : January 14, 2017, 16:09 Updated : January 14, 2017, 16:09

[AP/Yonhap News Photo]


A Filipino Islamic group has released the captain of a South Korean cargo vessel nearly three months after he was abducted in October last year near Malaysian waters, the foreign ministry said Saturday.

The man was taken along with a Filipino staff member on October 20 when his vessel was attacked by the Philippines-based terrorist group, Abu Sayyaf.

The group had held him on Jolo Island near Mindanao, the ministry said, adding he would head to Manila for a medical checkup before returning home.

It was not known if any ransom was paid. There have been negotiations between the terrorist group and the ship's owner.

When the group using a speed board attacked the ship, 18 other crew members, including three Koreans and 15 Filipino sailors, escaped unhurt after hiding in a protective facility.
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