Marines tighten watch against kidnap groups

COTABATO CITY, Philippines  – Combatants of the Marine Battalion Landing Team 7 (MBLT-7) here have again tightened their watch on the city’s key entry and exit points to prevent renewed attacks by kidnappers.

The new city police director, Senior Superintendent Roberto Badian, ordered the intensification of visibility of policemen in strategic areas where kidnappers are likely to attack. The MBLT 7 has deployed “motorcycle-riding” Marines to roam around on a 24-hour basis as part of the strategy to thwart the coming in of kidnappers from marshy areas at the border of Cotabato City and the towns in the first district of Maguindanao.

Four Chinese traders here have been kidnapped in a spate of attacks between August last year until early April this year, causing setbacks in the city’s business climate.

The commanding officer of the MBLT-7, Lt. Col. Dorotheo Jose Jalandoni, already posted in conspicuous areas tarpaulin signs teaching the public what numbers to contact when there are perceived threats to local security.

Authorities launched the other day the Task Force Kutawato – comprised of government security outfits, the Philippine Marine Corps, and prosecutors – as a composite shield against kidnappers whose wanton attacks in recent months have dampened the local economy.

The task force shall function under the supervision of the Regional Police Office in Region 12.

Local officials said the task force will utilize members of the local police, operatives of the MBLT-7 as its rapid reaction force that would run after kidnappers if they come near and attempt to pull off an attack.

The task force is also to focus on other crimes and in thwarting possible attacks by terrorists.