TOKYO - Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has condemned the apparent execution of one of 2 Japanese men held captive by the Islamic State militant group.

Abe issued a statement early on Sunday to denounce the apparent killing as an unforgivable act of violence. He said the government places the utmost priority on human life, and has been using every diplomatic route and other means available to rescue the hostages.

Abe said despite this, a photo uploaded to the internet appears to show the dead body of the man, Haruna Yukawa.

He said when he thinks of the pain Yukawa's family is enduring, he is at a loss for words. And he feels outrage at such an unforgivable act of terrorism.

Abe again demanded the captors immediately free the other captive, journalist Kenji Goto, unharmed. He said the government will do everything in its power to secure his release. And he said it will never give in to terrorism, and will continue to work with the international community to proactively contribute to the peace and stability of the world. (Source: NHK)

Story Date: January 26, 2015