JEDDAH, 25 August 2005 — A Filipino worker who was reportedly detained for two days by yet unknown abductors and subsequently released is under investigation by the police, the Philippine Embassy has said.
In a press statement, Ambassador Bahnarim A. Guinomla said the worker named Joselito Manifi was recovered by Makkah police authorities at the Hegira market near Hera bordering the holy city of Makkah, where he was freed on Aug. 7 after the afternoon prayer.
Manifi was reportedly turned over to Yanbu police authorities, who are now investigating him.
“According to Mr. Manifi, he may have been abducted due to his alleged involvement in the operation of an illegal lottery,” the press statement said.
Guinomla said he has instructed his staff to look into the condition of Manifi and directed the Philippine Consulate in Jeddah to ensure that the worker’s rights are protected. Manifi was quoted as saying that his ordeal has been traumatic and he continues to suffer mental stress due to the daily interrogation he has to go through with the police.