Anti-terrorism police foiled an attempt to kidnap an American executive, killing two of the kidnappers in the process. The kidnappers were apparently from the Pentagon group. The Abu Sayyaf have been holding two Americans and a Filipina hostage for nine months. Despite the presence of 7,000 troops, Abu Sayyaf remains at large with their hostages. The government is embarrassed by this lack of success, which is a major reason why the American offer of support was accepted.