Philippines apologizes for its policemen's murdering of S. Korean man

JAKARTA, Jan. 24 (Yonhap) -- The Filipino government on Tuesday officially apologized to its South Korean counterpart over a Korean businessman who was kidnapped and killed by local police officers last year.

Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella conveyed condolences to the bereaved family of the man in his 50s, surnamed Ji, who was abducted and strangled to death by policemen for ransom in October.

The apology came a few days after three Filipinos, including two police officers, were arrested over their involvement in the crime. They allegedly used a forged arrest warrant related to a drug law violation to kidnap the victim.

About two weeks after the abduction, Ji's family sent 5 million Philippines pesos (US$100,000) as a ransom following a phone call from the kidnappers. It was only later revealed that Ji was killed on the day of his abduction.

Abella said the Philippines is putting in all efforts possible to get to the bottom of the case, asking South Koreans to accept their apology. He said the Philippines will remain committed in punishing those involved in the crime.
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