Abu in kidnap of Fil-Am woman, son arrested

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines  – Police have arrested an alleged Abu Sayyaf bandit believed involved in the kidnapping of a Filipino-American and her son in 2010.

Wajir Arijani, who is also known by his aliases Abu Miqtad and Muhajid Wajir, was arrested on Friday in Barangay Sta. Catalina by a team of police officers led by Chief Inspector Edilberto Alvarez.

The arrest was based on a warrant issued by Basilan Judge Peter Eisma for kidnapping with serious illegal detention.

Arijani is a follower of Basilan-based Abu Sayyaf leader Furuji Indama, according to city police chief Senior Superintendent Angelito Casimiro.

The suspect was tagged in the kidnapping of Filipino-American Jerfa Lunsmann and her son Kevin on June 12, 2010.

Jerfa was released by the kidnappers while her son reportedly managed to escape.

Arijani was detained at the city police jail.