A file picture of alleged members of the Abu Sayyaf group. (via The Star/ANN)

Family members of two Malaysians held by Abu Sayyaf gunmen are deep in prayers for their safe return as news emerged of a body of a South Korean hostage found near the Patikul village in Jolo.

'€œWe are praying for their return. We hope they will come home to us safely,'€ said Christopher Then, the brother of Sarawakian Bernard Then, 39, who was kidnapped with restaurant manageress Thien Nyuk Fun, 50, from the Ocean Seafood Restaurant in Sandakan on May 15.

Christopher said they felt sad for the family of the South Korean hostage, Hong Noi-sung, and prayed for his family.

'€œWhen the news reports came out (yesterday), we felt very concerned and worried. I hope my brother will return home safely at once,'€ he said.

The 73-year-old Hong, who apparently died from an illness, was held captive for nine months and seven days by the Abu Sayyaf group. He was found dead late Sunday evening in Patikul.

According to reports, Hong was being held by the Indanan-based Abu Sayyaf group which is also reportedly holding the two Malaysians.

Efforts are underway to secure the release of the Malaysians. (kes)

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