Negotiations on Compostela abduction still on going

By Karen Pastor and Carmela Quidoles

SURIGAO - The Peace and Order Council of Compostella Valley is currently

negotiating with the communist group for the immediate release of Surigao del
Sur Mayor Roberto Luna Jr. and his four escorts, who were abducted at
Barangay Pasian, Monkayo, Compostela last Wednesday morning.

While on their way to Davao, Mayor Luna, together with his two police escorts
and two AFP members, were seized by 30 heavily-armed members of CPP-NPA
led by Commander Daryl, while conducting a fraud checkpoint.

One female hostage was released by the rebel group who is now coordinating
with the authorities for the pursuit operations.

According to Police Senior Supt Guillermo Cruz, the armed rebels have not yet
given specific demands in exchange for the release of the hostages.

Based from latest updates from PNP, Mayor Luna was abducted due to the issue
of graft and corruption in their area. But according to PS/Supt. Cruz, the
communist group probably wanted to demand money for the reason that Luna
refused to pay permit to campaign.

The incident management team was formed and is now active for negotiation
with the communist group.

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