MNLF fighters abandon Misuari, join MILF

MANILA, Philippines - A number of Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) fighters in Sulu have joined forces with the group’s rival, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

The MILF central leadership announced the defections on its website luwaran.com yesterday, saying 193 MNLF combatants led by Hadji Obin Talab, Sharif Ahmad and Alawi Hajan have joined their ranks following a meeting in Barangay Marsada, Panglima Estino town last week.

Ustad Habir Malik operating in Luuk, Sulu, formerly led the MNLF defectors.

Malik is wanted for his involvement in various crimes, including harboring local and foreign terrorists, kidnapping and serious illegal detention and murder.

Early this month, 120 MNLF rebels, led by commanders Mahad Maharail and Abdul Sajiji also joined the MILF, following a dialogue in Barangay Lihbug Kabaw in Talipao town.

“The MNLF combatants manifested their desire to undergo military training with the MILF in Central Mindanao,” the MILF leadership said.

The MILF said the MNLF defectors claimed that Misuari is no longer capable of continuing the Bangsamoro struggle for freedom and self-determination.

When asked about the security implication of the MNLF fighters’ defections, newly installed Western Mindanao Command commander, Maj. Gen. Noel Coballes, said they have yet to validate the report.

Coballes said the report could only be a propaganda ploy by certain groups.