Terrorist group Abu Sayyaf had plans recently to kidnap Filipino icon and politician Manny Pacquiao, the country’s president said on Wednesday.
Philippines president Benigno Aquino III said Wednesday that Abu Sayyaf, a Muslim militant group, had plans to bomb Manila, kidnap Pacquiao, and potentially assassinate Aquino.
The group’s plans were uncovered and the country apparently has the situation under control.
Abu Sayyaf is accused of beheading 68-year-old Canadian John Ridsdel on Monday after not having their ransom demands met. The group allegedly has over 20 more hostages. They are seeking funding from the Islamic State group.
Pacquiao is running for a senate seat in the Philippines. As such a wealthy and famous figure, he is probably the target of many plots in his home country, most of which never materialize.
