THE KIDNAPPERS of Sydney man Warren Rodwell have sent “proof of life” pictures to his Filipino family and allowed him to call his Filipina wife, according to unconfirmed reports.
The reports have emerged as the new Philippine military chief, Jessie Dellosa, ordered security forces in the southern province of Basilan to intensify the search for Mr Rodwell, 53, from Sydney.
Lieutenant-General Dellosa flew to the largely Muslim province on Thursday and met his local commanders.
The commander of military forces in Basilan, Colonel Ricardo Visaya, said: “Troops are searching for Rodwell who is being held captive by the Abu Sayyaf under Puruji Indama.”
Indama is a ruthless rebel commander notorious for beheading Christians.
Mr Rodwell was kidnapped on December 5 from his home near the town of Ipil on Mindanao by four gunmen posing as police.
He married Miraflor Gutang, 27, in June, after they met online.
The regional police chief, Chief Superintendent Elpidio de Asis, said he had not seen photos proving Mr Rodwell was alive. (Al Jacinto / Sydney Morning Herald)
Link: http://www.smh.com.au/national/photos-proof-rodwell-alive-20111223-1p8mt.html
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