AFP says arrest of Mundos to cripple Abu Sayyaf finances

MANILA, Philippines - The military said on Wednesday that the arrest of terrorist leader Khair Mundos would disrupt the funding sources of the Abu Sayyaf.

“His (Mundos) arrest will greatly affect the operation of the Abu Sayyaf in terms of financial sourcing, as well as in their linkages with foreign extremist groups that help in the training of Abu Sayyaf members in Mindanao,” Armed Forces public affairs chief Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala said.

Mundos, who was arrested by security forces in Paranaque City Wednesday morning, is said to be a foreign liaison officer of the Abu Sayyaf. He reportedly facilitated the transfer of funds from international terror cell al-Qaida to the Abu Sayyaf.

“We hope that we really disrupt the funding (of the terrorist group),” Defense department spokesman Peter Galvez told reporters in an interview.

“Terrorism will lead to nowhere. It just affects the development of our nation. They (Abu Sayyaf members) should lay down their arms,” he added.

Mundos was nabbed by members of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group and military operatives at around 9:30 a.m. in his in-laws' house at Bonifacio St. in Brgy. San Dionisio, Parañaque City.

Mundos has a standing arrest warrant for multiple murder and frustrated murder. Authorities have offered P1.2-million reward for his arrest.

The United States also listed him as one of the most wanted terrorists and offered a $500,000 reward for information on his whereabouts.

”We will coordinate with the proper government agencies who are handling Khair Mundos and will provide the necessary security and support to prevent any untoward incident,” Zagala said. - Alexis Romero with Anna Bajo and Venice Amoroso