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Philippine Rebel Leader Claims American Captive Executed
Philippine Muslim rebels claimed Tuesday that they killed an American hostage, who was among three dozen captives they hold. The military cautioned that the group has previously lied about such killings.
Abu Sabaya, a leader of the Abu Sayyaf rebels, called Radio Mindanao Network and said the rebels had beheaded Guillermo Sobero of Corona, Calif.
Sabaya had threatened to execute one of the three Americans he holds at noon Monday, but delayed it when the Philippine government agreed to one of his demands, that a Malaysian negotiator be brought in to help settle the crisis.
Last year, the rebels seized a several hostages and had executed Filipinos, but this was the first time they claimed to have killed a foreigner.
Military spokesman Brig. Gen. Edilberto Adan stressed the claim hadn't been confirmed.
Sabaya had said Monday that he would check with the Malaysian government to confirm that former Malaysian Sen. Sairin Karno could join the negotiating team if his government approved. Sabaya also had demanded that the government call off the thousands of troops combing the southern island of Basilan for him and his men.
On Monday, the rebels stormed a coconut and coffee plantation on southern Basilan island, burning down five houses and a chapel, then fled with 15 more hostages to go with the 13 people were already holding, the army said. Among the new hostages are two 12-year-olds.
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