IS-linked militants murder German hostage in the Philippines

Islamic State group-linked militants in the Philippines have murdered a German hostage, the SITE Intelligence group said on Monday.

A video posted by the Abu Sayyaf group, which was monitored by SITE, showed German hostage Jurgen Kantner being beheaded by a militant.

Kantner was reportedly held for ransom by the group which has alligned itself to IS.

He was kidnapped by Abu Sayyaf in November while his 70-year-old wife Sabine Merz was shot dead on their boat.

It follows earlier rumours of Kantner's murder by the group, although security forces say his body has not yet been retrieved.

Abu Sayyaf are holding at least 19 foreigners and seven Filipinos hostages, military spokesman Brigadier General Restituto Padilla said.

Agencies contributed to this story.