Basilan blasts: Persons of interest identified

MANILA, Philippines — Police have identified two persons of interest in the twin bombings in Isabela, Basilan on Monday that left two persons wounded.

Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said a manhunt for the two, whom she did not name, is underway.

She said the two have links with the Abu Sayyaf, and were believed to be behind the bomb attacks in a parking lot of a fastfood chain in Barangay Isabela Proper and at a transport terminal in Barangay La Piedad.

Fajardo said initial investigation showed that  the bombs were detonated using cellular phones.

The PNP had earlier placed all its units on full alert to prevent more bombings and other acts of terrorism.

Two persons were also wounded when an improvised explosive device went off in a public utility bus in Koronadal, South Cotabato on May 26.

Another blast occurred near a bus terminal in Tacurong, Sultan Kudarat on the same day.

CHR probe

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has initiated a parallel probe into the bombings in Mindanao.

“The CHR strongly condemns these incidents of violence and indiscriminate bombings, which run counter to the principles of International Humanitarian Law,” CHR spokesperson Jacqueline de Guia said.

”These attacks run counter to peace and security efforts of the government and is inimical to the country’s national development,” she said.

“We pray for quick recovery of those hurt in the blasts in Mindanao,” De Guia said.

Abu bandit nabbed

As this developed, Abu Sayyaf bandit Jamar Julaid, 39, was apprehended in Barangay Seit Lake in Panamao, Sulu on Thursday.

The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) said Julaid has a pending arrest warrant for violation of Republic Act 10168 or the Terrorism Prevention and Suppression Act.

The CIDG said Julaid is among those responsible for the kidnapping of 10 Indonesians in March 2016.

The suspect allegedly received P1 million as partial payment from the ransom of P25 million that his group demanded from the families of the  kidnap victims. –  Janvic Mateo