CIDG nabs 41 top fugitives

MANILA, Philippines - The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) of the Philippine National Police (PNP) caught 41 top suspected criminals last month, an official said yesterday.

CIDG director Samuel Pagdilao said suspected Abu Sayyaf Group bandits Ahmad Asanin, alias “Abu Arsad,” and Jumli Orie Manjuri, alias “Salam;” and Maguindanao massacre suspects Dexon Saptula alias Rene Matuti and Police Officer 1 Abbey Solaiman Guiadem topped the list of those arrested.

The CIDG, also last month, tracked down 320 most wanted criminals, of whom 193 were “neutralized,” Pagdilao said. CIDG teams were also able to seize 45 assorted firearms and 1,343 rounds of ammunition during the same period.

Pagdilao said the operations of the CIDG are focused on neutralizing criminal gangs, tracking down wanted fugitives and recovering loose firearms. These efforts are in line with the PNP’s thrust to keep next year’s elections peaceful.