Troops nab Abu Sayyaf in Zamboanga Sibugay

By Francisco E. Dosdos, Jr.
Correspondent .

PAGADIAN City — A joint law enforcement operation by the Army’s 44th Infantry Battalion and police apprehended a member of the Abu Sayyaf Group in Barangay Madaup, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay Monday morning, an Army report released yesterday show.

Maldimar Mahmor, under the Sulu-based ASG sub-leader, Idang Susukan, who formerly followed Galib Andang also known as Commander Robot, was apprehended through a search warrant 1-19-16 for Violations of Republic Act No. 10591 (Illegal possession of firearms, ammunitions), the Army report added.

“He currently serves as the ASG’s liaison and facilitator in its kidnapping activities in the provinces of Zamboanga del Norte and Zamboanga del Sur,” said Lt. Col. Don Templonuevo, the 44th Infantry Battalion Commander.

Based on reports, Mahmor took part in the Sipadan kidnapping in year 2000 where they’ve abducted 21 individuals consist of European and Malaysian tourists and Filipino resort workers.

Lately, Mahmor was also involved in the kidnapping of former Mayor of Naga, Zamboanga Sibugay and Duterte couple in Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte, added the report.

Recovered from Mahmor’s possession was one caliber .38 revolver, one hand grenade, one M-16 magazine with ammunition, and one rocket-propelled grenade ammunition, the report reads in part.

“The apprehension of Mahmor is a big loss for the ASG because it will disrupt their illegal activities, particularly kidnapping, in our area of operation,” said Col. Bagnus Gaerlan, Jr., 102nd Infantry Brigade Commander who has operational jurisdiction of Zamboanga Sibugay.

Meanwhile, Brigadier Gen. Roberto Ancan, the 1st Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Zampelan commander, commended the efforts of the troops that led to the apprehension of ASG member.

“The Tabak Troopers in collaboration with the PNP will intensify joint law enforcement operation to protect the people and communities against terrorists,” Ancan added.