Detained rebels to be moved to Manila

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – At least 275 suspected members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) detained at the city jail here will be transferred to the Bicutan Jail in Manila anytime, a jail official said yesterday.

City jail warden Chief Inspector Julius Arro said they have received an order from the Supreme Court for the transfer of the MNLF members believed belonging to the Misuari-faction who raided Zamboanga City three weeks ago.

“We have received the Supreme Court resolution for the change of venue of the trial of the suspected MNLF detainees,” Arro said.

He declined to disclose the date of the transfer for security reason, and the manner of transporting the detainees.

Arro gave assurance that security would be tight to pre-empt attempts to sabotage the transfer.

State prosecutors have charged 299 MNLF rebels including its leaders Nur Misuari and Habier Malik for the Zamboanga siege.

The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group said of the number, 12 including Misuari remain at large.