Abu in Burnham kidnapping falls

MANILA, Philippines - Police yesterday arrested a suspected member of the Abu Sayyaf involved in the high-profile kidnapping of American missionaries Martin and Gracia Burnham more than 10 years ago.

Reports reaching the Philippine National Police (PNP) headquarters identified the suspect as Sonny Baki Barahim, alias Abu Ismael, among those wanted for the kidnapping of the Burnhams and other tourists from a resort in Palawan on May 27, 2001.

PNP spokesman Chief Superintendent Agrimero Cruz Jr. said Barahim was arrested in Isabela City, Basilan yesterday morning by units of the police Special Action Force serving the warrant of arrest issued by a Basilan judge on the kidnapping.

Barahim reportedly acted as a guard of the Burnham couple during their captivity for over a year.

Martin Burnham was killed during a rescue attempt while trying to save Gracia from being hit during the exchange of gunfire.

Police said Barahim has been trained in explosives and acted as a spotter for the Abu Sayyaf for its bombing and kidnapping operations in Zamboanga City and Basilan.

Barahim is a brother of Ibno Ismael, alias Abu Kudano, now detained at the Bicutan jail for the same offense.

The brothers were working for the late Abdurajak Janjalani, Hamsiraji Sali, and Isnilon Hapilon.

Barahim’s group was linked with the faction of Abu Sayyaf commander Enteng Anjil, who was connected with Furudji Indama.

The military hailed Barahim’s arrest, saying this would have a significant impact on the terrorist group.

“Because of the information provided by our peace-loving citizens, the wanted personality from the Abu Sayyaf group was apprehended,” said Armed Forces spokesman Col. Arnulfo Burgos Jr.

“This means a lot since he was captured alive. He can provide information that could help us track down other (Abu Sayyaf) members. Our main aim is to stop terrorism,” he added.

The strength of the Abu Sayyaf has declined to about 340, the military said. – With Alexis Romero, Roel Pareño