Ampatuan clan members implicated in massacre urged to surrender

AMPATUAN, Maguindanao , Philippines  – Police and the military called yesterday on Ampatuan clan members implicated in the Nov. 23 Maguindanao massacre to surrender as warrants of arrest are set to be issued against them.

Chief Superintendent Felicisimo Khu, Joint Task Force 12-Alpha commander, told The STAR that principal suspects Ulo Ampatuan, Tony Kenies and Kanor Ampatuan were last seen with their wives and armed men fleeing a military assault in the hinterlands of Lebak, Sultan Kudarat.

“With them were the four women, whom they used as their shields. It’s not true it was a hostage taking because two of the women were wives of the suspects,” he said.

The three, along with other suspects Abdullah Sangki, Muhamad Sangki, Tammy Masukat, Tumi Timba Abas and Police Officer 1 Abbey Guiadem, have been placed last week by Department of Justice (DOJ) on the immigration watchlist.

Meanwhile, Maj. Randolf Cabangbang, Armed Forces Eastern Mindanao Command spokesman, said the raids on Ampatuan properties will resume this week as they are now applying for more search warrants.

“There’s strong evidence there are more firearms hidden so we will continue to apply for search warrants against the Ampatuans and the raids will continue,” he said.

PNP chief Director General Jesus Verzosa assured residents of General Santos City yesterday that Gov. Zaldy Ampatuan of the ARMM and his two brothers, acting Maguindanao governor Sajid Ampatuan, Vice Gov. Akmed Ampatuan and nephew, Shariff Aguak town Mayor Anwar Ampatuan will be moved to Metro Manila as soon as the court issues a commitment order for them.                 – Rose Tamayo-Tesoro