Three Arab ‘preachers’ questioned

ZAMBOANGA CITY — Immigration agents picked up for questioning Wednesday three Arab Islamic preachers after their names were found in a "terrorist watchlist."

The three were identified as Mohammed Sahud Allahushen, Abdullah Saad Absalih, and Mohammad Abdulrahman Aljunahya.

Their nationalities are not known.

Col. Alexander Yano, commander of the Army’s 601st Brigade, said he had received reports that three Arabs were picked up Wednesday by immigration agents and policemen.

"But I have heard their presence was authentic," he said.

Investigations showed that Allahushen, Absalih and Aljunahya entered the country as tourists and presented a certification from the Office of Muslim Affairs that they are preachers.

Police said the three were reportedly seen in General Santos City during the spate of bombings there in 2001. – Roel Pareño