THE US Embassy in Manila is working closely with local authorities following reports of kidnapping of an American citizen in Zamboanga del Norte.

In a statement, the embassy acknowledged awareness of the situation but refrained from commenting on specifics regarding the alleged kidnapping while an investigation is ongoing.

"The Department of State has no greater priority than the welfare and safety of US citizens abroad," the embassy stated.

In a separate statement, the Police Regional Office 9 (PRO-9) confirmed the incident involving an unnamed 26-year-old American, who was abducted while creating content and posting videos about his life in the region.

According to reports, suspected members of the Abu Sayyaf group broke into the American’s home in Sitio Tungawan, Barangay Poblacion, Sibuco town around 11 p.m. on October 17.

The American reportedly attempted to escape but was shot in the leg. The victim was subsequently forced onto a boat and taken towards the waters off Sulu and Basilan.

Local authorities are currently pursuing leads to locate him and apprehend those responsible for the kidnapping.

“We want to assure the public, particularly the community of Sibuco, that we are doing everything in our power to secure the safe recovery of the victim,” PRO-9 said.

The PRO-9 also asked for the cooperation of everyone and urged those with information about it to help them.(CMM)

• Tags
• #US Embassy Manila
• #American Citizen Kidnapped
• #Zamboanga del Norte
• #Police Regional Office 9
• # Sulu
• #Basilan
• #Abduction