ZAMBOANGA CITY — Joint police and military operatives arrested an alleged Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) member believed to be involved in the kidnapping of 53 people in Basilan province 18 years ago, a top police official announced Saturday.
Chief Supt. Billy Beltran, Police Regional Office 9 (Zamboanga) director, identified the suspect as Masser Lim Omar, 57, resident of Barangay Panigayan, Malamawi Island, Isabela City, Basilan.
Beltran said Omar, who was arrested in his residence in Malamawi Island at about 2:30 a.m. Saturday, has a standing warrant of arrest for kidnapping and serious illegal detention with ransom, with no recommended bail.
He said the suspect was involved in the March 21, 2000 kidnapping of 53 people, including slain Claretian priest, Fr. Roel Gallardo, from a school in Barangay Tumahubong, Sumisip, Basilan.
The other victims included teachers and students, who were herded to an ASG camp in Mount Punoh Mohaji, Sumisip. The Abu Sayyaf bandits executed Gallardo and some of the hostages, including two teachers.
The other hostages were later released in batches in exchange for food supply and “tokens” while the rest were rescued by the military in an assault that saw the fall of the ASG camp.
Beltran said Omar was taken to the Isabela City Police station for proper booking and disposition. (PNA)