Kato, 113 followers charged over attacks

MANILA, Philippines – The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) has filed criminal cases against Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Movement (BIFM) commander Ameril Umbra Kato, four of his officers, and 109 fighters.

CIDG chief Director Samuel Pagdilao Jr. said the charges filed against Kato and his henchmen before the Maguindanao prosecutor’s office will allow the CIDG to pursue them with the full force of the law.

“We filed cases of multiple murder, multiple frustrated murder, multiple attempted murder, kidnapping, and robbery with homicide against Kato and his followers in connection with the atrocities they committed in Mindanao,” Pagdilao said.

Aside from Kato, BIFM officers charged were Muhammad Ali Tambako, Badrudin Silongan, Kagi Karialan, and Abu Missry.

Kato’s group stormed detachments of Army soldiers and militiamen in five adjoining towns in Maguindanao last Aug. 5.