MILF calls Sayyaf a 'monster'

MANILA, Philippines - The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has labeled terrorist group Abu Sayyaf as “a monster” for kidnapping civilians to raise money.

In an editorial posted on its website luwaran.com, the MILF said kidnapping is bad and cannot be justified whoever the target is.

"A beast is always a beast but if it devours its own kind, then it becomes worse than a beast. It is a monster. Today, the ASGs (Abu Sayyaf Group) are not only abducting foreigners but everybody who has money or anyone perceived to have the ability to pay ransom,” the editorial read.

MILF also scored the Abu Sayyaf for supposedly using Islam “to advance their false cause.”

It cited the abduction of Jordanian journalist Baker Atyani in June 2012 and independent filmmakers Nadjoua and Linda Bansil last June 22.

“The growing menace must stop now. It destroys the very core of human dignity and puts to shame everyone who still has that sense of self-respect,” the group said.

“Moreover, it is humiliating to every Moro leader and is a slap to those leaders in Manila that a small band of people pursues their evil trade at will and earn millions of dollars on the process,” it added.

MILF said the kidnapping in Central Mindanao has been addressed to a large extent due to the efforts of the Ad Hoc Joint Action Group, which is tasked to isolate and interdict criminal and lawless groups in the area

“But in Sulu, we do not understand why this group is not neutralized. The ASG’s lair is mainly in Patikul town, which is adjacent to the capital town of Jolo. Here, the strength of the military, both naval and infantry is huge,” MILF said.

“In addition, the MNLF claims this island province as their bastion. There are also many powerful politicians who are armed to the teeth,” it added.

MILF said it is looking for ways to address kidnapping and to secure the freedom of the captives.