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The government of Philippines has ordered Abu Sayyaf bandits to surrender and release all their hostages or they will face massive strikes, Indonesian defense minister disclosed here on Thursday.
Defense Minister Ryamizar Ryacudu, who frequently communicates with his Filipino counterpart Voiltaire Gazmin for the release of Indonesia seamen being taken hostage by the armed group, revealed that the position of the armed group has been weak after the the military launched offensive moves that paralyzed nearly half of Abu Sayayaf strength.
"The Filipino president has given time to them (Abu Sayyaf) to surrender....otherwise they will be attacked," Minister Ryamizar said at defense ministry.
Days ago about 11,000 troops attacked the group headquarters in Basilan of southern Philippines, he said.
The minister said that over 100 Abu Sayyaf bandits were killed with 37 others wounded and arrested in the Filipino offensive move.
On nine Indonesian seamen being held hostage by the group, Minister Ryamizar said that a diplomatic channel is still to be pursued.
The Abu Sayyaf bandits have always demanded ransoms as a requirement of hostage release and said they rould behead their hostages should it be rejected.
Still, Indonesian Security Chief Minister Wiranto stressed that the government rejects to comply with the demand.
A total of 25 Indonesian nationals have been abducted by the group this year; so far 16 of them have been released.
(APD)
