ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines—Abu Sayyaf spokesperson Abu Ramie said Norwegian national Kjartan Sekkingstad was readied for release since Friday night.
Ramie said they were just waiting for the delivery of the P30-million ransom in exchange for Sekkingstad’s freedom.
READ: Duterte spills secret: P50M paid to Abu Sayyaf
Sekkingstad was one of the four people the Abu Sayyaf abducted from a marina on Samal Island in Davao del Norte. Two of his companions, Canadians John Ridsdel and Robert Hall were beheaded separately.
BACKSTORY: Abu Sayyaf: We are going to behead Norwegian hostage
Hall’s Filipino girlfriend, Marites Flor was also freed in June. Last month, President Rodrigo Duterte said P50 million had already been paid for the Norwegian’s release but the Abu Sayyaf held on to him.