Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 2) — Authorities confirmed Friday that the body recovered near a clash site in Patikul, Sulu earlier this week belonged to an Indonesian fisherman who was among those abducted in January off Malaysia’s eastern coast.
Indonesian Army and Police Attaches, as well as the kidnap victim’s family, identified the body of 35-year-old La Aba, the military’s Joint Task Force Sulu said in a statement.
“Based on the medical findings, no gunshot wounds were found all over the body. However, a bruise was seen on his head. The cause of death is yet to be determined,” the statement added.
Officials earlier said the victim may have been killed by his kidnappers when he tried to escape.
La Alba’s remains were found after an encounter with his abductors on Wednesday, which resulted in the death of Abu Sayyaf member Arsibar Sawadjaan.
Soldiers found the body 300 meters from the site of the clash in Barangay Maligay, Patikul, Sulu, according to Lt.Gen Corleto Vinluan Jr., chief of the Armed Forces Western Mindanao Command.
La Aba was among the five Indonesian fishermen abducted in waters near Sabah and authorities have suspected that the perpetrators may have fled to Sulu.
“Aside from the search and destroy operations being conducted by JTF Sulu targeting the terror groups, operating troops on the ground are likewise performing a rescue mission to ensure the safety of the kidnap victims,” the military said.
