'Sayyaf kidnapping soft targets'

MANILA, Philippines – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) yesterday urged the public to be more vigilant and cooperative with security forces as the terrorist Abu Sayyaf group is now going after all types of people, or “soft” targets, in the their kidnap activities.

In an interview, Lt. Col. Ernesto Torres, AFP public affairs office chief, said the ASG now targets even ordinary people.

“No matter how hard we try, we cannot cover every inch on the ground. We are doing everything to prevent the ASG from kidnapping, but then, because they now go after all types of people, which makes it difficult for us to really focus as to who their targets are, we need the support of the people so we could provide security,” he said.

He said that over time, the Abu Sayyaf, believed to have links with al-Qaeda, has widened its targets for kidnapping for ransom, as shown by the abduction of members of a non-government organization engaged in peace and development efforts in Basilan.

Torres said that this development requires closer cooperation between the public and security forces to lessen apprehensions.

He said that while the government is firm on its no-ransom policy, it could not prevent private individuals from giving in to the bandits’ demands, especially if their lives are at stake.

“We can only appeal to the families. Of course we understand them, their priority is the safety of those abducted, but for us, when they give ransom, the bandits can use that to buy arms and strengthen their ranks, so it’s really very complicated,” he said.

A few days ago, Abu Sayyaf bandits released Millet Mendoza, a member of the Nagdilaab Foundation, after several months in captivity, following negotiations by the crisis committee.       – James Mananghaya