3 Indonesian hostages freed in south Philippines

The Abu Sayyaf bandits have released three Indonesian fishermen in southern Philippine province of Sulu after holding them captives for three months, authorities said Sunday.

The military said the Indonesians were freed Saturday night.

The three Indonesians, along with Norwegian Kjartan Sekkingstad, who was also freed by the bandits Saturday, spent the night with Moro National Liberation Front leader Nur Misuari, police said.

The former hostages were turned over to Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza, who flew to Jolo, Sunday afternoon.

The Abu Sayyaf kidnapped the Indonesian fishermen in July near the borders of Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines.

Due to the series of abductions, the three countries have agreed to intensify patrol in the area.

Source : XINHUA