Abu linked to kidnap, beheading nabbed

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines  – A suspected member of the Abu Sayyaf linked to the beheading of American Guillermo Sobero 10 years ago and the kidnapping of students and teachers in Basilan was captured in this city on Friday.

Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) chief Director Samuel Pagdilao Jr. identified the suspect as Alawie Pasihul, 42, with aliases Alawie Jaji and Asman, and a resident of Campo Islam, Zamboanga City.

In his report to Pagdilao, CIDG Western Mindanao chief Senior Superintendent Edgardo Danao said Pasihul was collared at the intersection of Sevilla and Saragoza streets at Plaza Pershing.

Directorate for Integrated Police Operation-Western Mindanao commander Chief Superintendent Manuel Barcena said Pasihul has a standing warrant of arrest for kidnapping and serious illegal detention in connection with the mass kidnapping of pupils and teachers, including Fr. Rhoel Gallardo of Claret School in Tumahubong, Sumisip town in March 2000.

Pasihul was also involved in the 2002 Cabatangan siege in this city when their group took hundreds of civilian hostages.

Pasihul is a known follower of the late Abu Sayyaf leader Abdurajak Janjalani and presently involved in recruiting Muslim youths for membership with the Abu Sayyaf group based in Sulu.