by: Letty Militante
ZAMBOANGA CITY – The Police Regional Office IX (PRO-9) has confirmed the abduction of an American national, Elliot Onil Eastman, on October 17, 2024, at approximately 11:00 PM in Sitio Tungawan, Barangay Poblacion, Sibuco, Zamboanga del Norte.
Regional Director Brig. Gen. Bowenn Joey Masauding said that initial reports indicate that Eastman was forcibly taken from his residence by four armed men who identified themselves as law enforcement officers.
Eastman reportedly resisted the abduction, sustaining a gunshot wound to his leg before being taken aboard a boat heading towards the high seas.
A hot pursuit operation was launched immediately following the incident, involving personnel from the Anti-Kidnapping Unit 9, PRO-9, Zamboanga del Norte Police Provincial Office, Sibuco Municipal Police Station, the Marines, and the Provincial Mobile Force Company.
PRO-9 Public Information Officer PCOL Helen Galvez stated that Eastman had been residing in Sibuco with his wife for the past five months.
As of press time, there has been no communication from the abductors, nor any ransom demands.
Galvez also clarified that it is too early to speculate on any connection to the 2025 elections.
PRO-9 assures the public, particularly the Sibuco community, that they are committed to securing the safe recovery of the victim.
The public is urged to cooperate and provide any information that could assist in the investigation.
“Your safety and security remain our top priorities,” Galvez emphasized. “We will continue to provide updates as we make progress in this case.”(Letty Militante)
