Rebel tagged in Italian priest’s kidnap captured

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – An alleged member of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) tagged in the kidnapping of an Italian priest seven years ago was arrested in Talusan town, Zamboanga Sibugay on Wednesday, security official said yesterday.

Police said Anjang Abbas was allegedly one of the most wanted criminals in Western Mindanao and said to be a member of a rogue MILF faction. 

Abbas was arrested by police officers of the Regional Intelligence Unit (RIU) and the provincial public safety company in Barangay Camias Drive shortly before noon Wednesday.

The suspect’s arrest was based on a warrant signed by Judge Ruben Maraon for multiple murder, frustrated murder and theft charges.

The RIU said Abbas was involved in the kidnapping of Fr. Giancarlo Bossi, an Italian priest, in Payao town in June 2007. The priest was released more than a month later allegedly after payment of ransom.

Abbas was also tagged in the kidnapping of Nena Toremocha, businesswoman and wife of a former mayor in Zamboanga Sibugay, in April 2010. She was released two weeks later in Lanao del Norte.

Authorities said Abbas’ group was engaged in kidnapping, piracy, extortion and car theft in Mabuhay, Talusan, Olutanga and Payao towns, all in Zamboanga Sibugay. 

The suspect was turned over to the Criminal Investigation and Detection Unit in Western Mindanao.