Authorities have arrested the alleged leader of the group that kidnapped American content creator Elliot Eastman.

The 35-year-old key suspect was arrested at sea between the Basilan Strait and Zamboanga City by virtue of a warrant for kidnapping and serious illegal detention issued by a court in Zamboanga del Norte.

The court did not allow the suspect to post bail.

Authorities said the suspect reportedly served as leader of the group during the kidnapping.

Eastman was abducted by four armed men from his house in Sibuco, Zamboanga del Norte on October 17, 2024. He was shot in the leg when he refused to go with them. He was then forced to board a banca.

One of the suspects arrested earlier believes Eastman may be dead.

In December 2024, the Police Regional Office-Zamboanga (PRO-9) said the suspect arrested earlier, as well as a witness, said Eastman died in the banca while being transported away from the town. His abductors allegedly threw his body into the sea.

Authorities filed kidnapping and serious illegal detention charges against four suspects on October 29, 2024.

PRO-9 lauded the teams involved in arresting the alleged group leader.

“This development is a testament to our unwavering dedication and continued commitment to serve justice for the victim,” PRO-9 Director, Brigadier General Bowenn Joey Masauding, said.