The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has joined the search for Elliot Eastman, an American YouTuber who was allegedly kidnapped last week in Sibuco, Zamboanga del Norte. FBI investigators have arrived in the area and are working closely with local authorities in Sibuco to investigate the disappearance.
Helen Galvez, information officer for Police Regional Office 9 (Zamboanga), revealed that the FBI has been coordinating with local authorities to locate Eastman, who has been living in Sibuco for the past five months.
“We have identified persons of interest and are currently investigating their possible involvement in this case,” Galvez said in an October 21 interview with Radyo DZBB. She also stated that authorities are exploring other possibilities since no ransom demand has been made so far.
Witnesses reported that four armed men were seen taking Eastman, but their identities remain unclear. The Armed Forces of the Philippines has offered to assist the Philippine National Police, stating that they are prepared to conduct tracking and pursuit operations.
In a statement provided by the US Embassy, acting spokesperson Glenda Wallace said that the US government is in frequent contact with local law enforcement and is actively involved in the search for Eastman. “The safety and well-being of US citizens abroad is our top priority,” the statement emphasized.
Background Details
According to police reports, the armed men posed as law enforcement officers before abducting Eastman, who was shot in the leg during the encounter. Despite the absence of ransom demands, the police continue to investigate, although no proof of life has been received so far.
Eastman, who is married to a Filipino national, returned to the Philippines five months ago for his wife’s graduation. His social media presence shows that he frequently posted videos documenting his daily life in Sibuco.
