Misuari still in Sulu, military officer says

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines  - Fugitive Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founder and chairman Nur Misuari  is still in the Philippines and has remained in hiding in several enclaves of his close followers in Sulu province, according to a military commander here.

Lt. Gen. Rustico Guerrero, commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) said Misuari remains  in Sulu,  contrary to reports the former MNLF chairman slipped to the Middle East.

Guerrero said government forces in Sulu continue to pursue Misuari. He refused to elaborate.

The senior military official said there was no immediate sighting  of Misuari since  the latter went on hiding after directing the siege last September 9 in this city.

“The persistent reports indicate he is still in Sulu,” Guerrero said.

Misuari, who has a standing warrant of arrest, is facing charges of rebellion and violation of international humanitarian law, genocide and other crimes against humanity in connection with the bloody standoff in this city that dislocated more than 120,000 civilians, left close to 200 people dead and scores wounded.

Close to 300 followers of Misuari, who were captured and facing similar charges, have  been transferred to the detention facility in Bicutan Jail, Manila recently. Their transfer was done secretly under heavy security  via a naval landing transport ship.

Guerrero said they have not monitored any movement movement of the supporters of Misuari in connection with the plot to retaliate.

“But we are not letting our guards down and we are prepared for any eventuality,” Guerrero added.

Guerrero said his ground commanders have been in contact and constant coordination with most of the MNLF commanders who were not involved in the siege and have not even signified to support such atrocity.

“So it was good sign na hindi naman talaga all out ang rogue MNLF elements  to doing atrocities in other areas,” Guerrero said. -  Roel Pareño