MANILA, Philippines — Philippine police are actively searching for an American national who was reportedly abducted by four armed gunmen in a coastal town in the southern Philippines. The victim, identified as 26-year-old Elliot Onil Eastman from Vermont, was shot in the leg while attempting to resist capture before the assailants fled the scene in a speedboat.
The abduction took place in Sibuco, Zamboanga del Norte, Thursday night, and police have confirmed that Eastman’s case may be related to a kidnapping for ransom—a reminder of the long-standing security issues plaguing the region, which is home to a significant Muslim minority in predominantly Catholic Philippines.
Police received a report from local resident Abdulmali Hamsiran Jala, who witnessed the incident. He alleged that the assailants, dressed in black and armed with M16 rifles, claimed to be police officers while forcibly taking Eastman. Following the attack, police pursued the suspects but were unable to apprehend them.
The regional police made a public statement, assuring the community of Sibuco that all efforts are being made to secure the safe recovery of the victim. Authorities have called for anyone with relevant information to assist in the ongoing investigation.
Recent reports indicated that Eastman had shared details of his life on social media, including photos and videos illustrating his marriage to a Muslim woman in Sibuco. The U.S. Embassy in Manila has yet to respond to inquiries regarding the alleged abduction.
The southern Philippines, rich in resources, has long struggled with poverty and persistent threats from various insurgent groups. While a 2014 peace agreement with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front helped reduce conflict in the area, threats from smaller factions like the Abu Sayyaf group still linger. The Abu Sayyaf has a history of kidnappings for ransom, including targeting Western tourists and missionaries.
As the Philippines prepares for mid-term elections next year, history shows that crime rates—including kidnappings—tend to rise in the lead-up to elections as corrupt political figures seek funds to support their campaigns. Fortunately, recent years have reported only a handful of isolated incidents in the area.
Authorities are now focused on preventing further violence and ensuring the safety of citizens amid these circumstances.
Credit: ABC News
