Canadian PM condemns murder of hostage in the Philippines

Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau has condemned the execution of a Canadian hostage by Abu Sayyaf militants in the Philippines, calling it “an act of cold-blooded murder”.

John Ridsdel (68), a former mining executive, was captured by Islamist militants along with three other people in September 2015 while on holiday on a Philippine island.

The Philippine army said a severed head was found on a remote island on Monday, five hours after the expiry of a ransom deadline.

‘Unnecessary death’

“Canada condemns without reservation the brutality of the hostage-takers and this unnecessary death.

“This was an act of cold-blooded murder and responsibility rests squarely with the terrorist group who took him hostage,” Mr Trudeau told reporters on the sidelines of a cabinet meeting.

“The government of Canada is committed to working with the government of the Philippines and international partners to pursue those responsible for this heinous act.” – (Reuters)