NORTH COTABATO, Philippines --- Authorities foiled last weekend an attempt by a suspected member of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) to set off a fragmentation grenade at a target somewhere in Kabacan town in the province.
The suspect Kadil Sultan Dandang, who is now detained at the Kabacan municipal jail, was intercepted by soldiers and policemen, acting on a tip by informants, while on his way to the town proper, bringing with him a live hand grenade.
Supt. Jordine Maribojo, Kabacan’s municipal police chief, said Dandang did not resist arrest, sensing the heavy presence of policemen and combatants of the 7th Infantry Battalion that flagged him down.
"A live grenade was found in one of his trouser pockets,†Maribojo said.
Maribojo said Dandang is included in their list of wanted kidnappers, extortionists, and motorcycle thieves.
Army intelligence sources said Dandang has links with the outlawed BIFF and has, in fact, been acting as the group's "collector" of protection money from traders in some areas in North Cotabato.
The military is convinced he was to use the grenade that was seized from him to bomb a business establishment that refused to shell out money.
Maribojo said they will charge Dandang with illegal possession of explosive before a local court on Monday.