Suspected Abu Sayyaf sub-leader nabbed in Basilan

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines (Xinhua) - A suspected sub-leader of rogue group Abu Sayyaf, who is believed to be involved in high-profile kidnappings and attacks, was arrested by government security forces in a pre-dawn raid in the southern Philippines today.

Regional Police Director Edgar Basbas identified the suspect as Nasser Usman, a teacher assigned at the Tandung Ahas National High School. Usman, who oversees the indoctrination of the militant group, was arrested in Lamitan City, Basilan province.

Basbas said Usman is facing four counts of kidnapping with serious illegal detention. The warrant for his arrest was issued in connection with the Lamitan siege in 2001.

Police intelligence also revealed that the suspect is believed to be involved in Ipil town siege in 1995 and kidnappings in Zamboanga Sibugay and Tumahubong in 2000.