AFP raises fears of misencounters
ARMED Forces chief Gen. Victor Ibrado yesterday said government forces pursuing the abductors of Irish priest Michael Sinnott in the Lanao provinces might not be able to distinguish the kidnappers from Moro Islamic Liberation Front rebels.
Thus, there is the possibility that troops would clash with the secessionists in the course of the ongoing operations, which he said had been coordinated with the MILF.
The MILF secured Sinnott from the kidnappers on Nov. 12.
"They (MILF forces) know that we are operating and if they are there in the area, of course we may not be able to identify everybody so there is possibility that engagements may happen," said Ibrado.
MILF spokesman Eid Kabalu said misencounters "will be avoided," stressing the offensive against the kidnappers is coordinated with the MILF.
The MILF has thousands of men in Lanao del Norte, according to Kabalu.
He stressed the MILF was not involved in the kidnapping. The only role the MILF played was securing Sinnott, he said.
About 1,000 troops have been deployed to support the police in serving arrest warrants on three accused -- Saidamen Montaner, James Palwa, and a certain Jimboy. The PNP, which filed charges against the three, is silent on the suspects’ organization or affiliation.
Ibrado would not say if the kidnappers are connected with the MILF as some security officials earlier said. The MILF has denied involvement in the October 11 kidnapping.
Ibrado also said they have no "specific information" on whether the suspects are being protected or coddled by the MILF.
Ibrado said the military believes the suspects are still in Lanao del Norte. Citing Sinnott’s statement after his turnover to government officials, Ibrado said there were at least seven suspects who stayed with the 79-year-old Columban priest during his captivity.
More on News
- DENR suspends nickel mine’s ECC
- DOH wants aerial spraying banned until health risks are addressed
- 3 Muslims killed in demolition of Pasay shanties
- AFP raises fears of misencounters
- Palace denies ‘secret pact’ with MILF is in the works
- Lakas-Kampi may tap Manny Pacquiao, ‘Pacmom’ as endorsers
- LDP has no bet; NPC sees self as ‘swing’ vote
- Lakas can muster only 7 for Senate
- Automated polls for Pinoys overseas
- Bishop backs ‘Ladlad’ ruling
- UN aid appeal raised to $144 million
- Move to amend Charter revived in House