Norway condemns killing of Canadian hostage in the Philippines
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Published under: Solberg's Government
Publisher: Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Press release | Date: 26/04/2016 | Last updated: 27/04/2016
‘I most strongly condemn the killing of Canadian citizen John Ridsdel in the Philippines. Abhorrence and outrage is the only reasonable response to his murder by the terrorist group Abu Sayyaf,’ said Minister of Foreign Affairs Børge Brende.
John Ridsdel was kidnapped together with Norwegian Kjartan Sekkingstad and two others on 21 September 2015, and they have been held on the island of Jolo in the southern Philippines. The Islamist group Abu Sayyaf was responsible for the kidnapping and has since issued a number of threats combined with demands for ransoms.
‘Our thoughts and sympathy go to John Ridsel’s family and friends. And we must not forget that three other hostages are still being held, and that their families and friends are also suffering. Norway will persist in its efforts to find a solution for the remaining hostages,’ said Mr Brende.