COTABATO, Philippines – Philippine police say a manhunt is underway for gunmen wearing fatigues who have seized a Filipino businessman in southern Cotabato city.
Chief Inspector Alden Panganiban says at least six gunmen barged into a hardware store owned by Nelson Tay on Monday, disarming security guards and dragging him at gunpoint to a waiting van. Witnesses say the men were armed with rocket-propelled grenades and assault rifles.
No one has claimed responsibility, and police say they have no suspects.
Kidnappings for ransom are common in Cotabato, where criminal gangs and Muslim rebels operate. Last year a gang that includes former Muslim rebels and local gunmen snatched for ransom at least five people
