Susilo calls Arroyo over hostages

Susilo calls Arroyo over hostages

JAKARTA: President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has called
Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo to take the
necessary measures to help release three Indonesians now being
held hostage by separatist rebels in southern Philippines.

Foreign minister Hassan Wirayuda said after a Cabinet meeting
on Wednesday that President Arroyo had promised to order the
military, police and intelligence agency to take steps that would
lead to their release.

Hassan said the government decided during the Cabinet meeting
to send a team comprising officials from the foreign ministry,
police, intelligence body and the office of Coordinating Minister
for Political, Legal and Security Affairs to the Philippines.

The Jami Al Islami group in Mindanao who are holding the three
Indonesians hostage are demanding Rp 500 million (US$53,200) in
ransom. -- JP