Philippines has jailed Abu Sayyaf kidnappers for life for kidnappings from resorts in Malaysia

In April 2000, members of the Islamist extremist group Abu Sayyaf kidnapped 21 people at gunpoint from a resort on the Malaysian island of Sipadan.

The hostages were held captive for months in the jungles of Jolo, about 600 miles south of Manila, until they were freed for millions of dollars.

“This belief is a reflection of the DOJ’s unwavering efforts to uphold the rule of law without fear or falter,” the Philippine Department of Justice said in a statement.