THE Moro National Liberation Front and the
Abu Sayyaf Group have reportedly threatened to launch an all-out
offensive in at least three towns in Sulu to protest the
continued detention of Nur Misuari, former chairman of the
Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, who is on house arrest in
Quezon City for leading a rebellion in Jolo in 2001 that killed
scores of people.
An intelligence report from the ARMM Police
Office said the MNLF and the ASG met last March 18 in Barangay
Tiis, Talipao, Sulu to discuss Misuari's case. "Once the
government (does) not free the MNLF chairman, an armed offensive
will be launched simultaneously by the MNLF and ASG forces
against the government troops in the hinterlands of Panamao,
Maim-bung, and Talipao areas to gain media mileage and foreign
nations' attention," the report said.
The MNLF, organized by Misuari in the early
1970's, is accredited by the influential Organization of Islamic
Conference.
The report said MNLF commanders present at
the meeting were Khaid Ajibon, chairman of the MNLF Lupah Sug
Revolutionary Committee; Ustadz Khabir Malik; Tahil Sali; Ustadz
Mahmor Gardan; Nidzmi Jabbar; and Hadji Adam. The ASG
representatives were Commanders Radulan Sahiron, Albader Parad,
Angah Adja, Sihata Latip, and Sahid Susukan who brought along
followers armed to the teeth.
The MNLF's Ajibon presided over the meeting
which coincided with the observance of the Bangsamoro Day.
The report said the MNLF plans to strike
troop detachments while the ASG will ambush government vehicles.
Chief Supt. Joel Goltiao, head of ARMM
police, said the police chiefs of the three Sulu towns have been
forewarned. He said he has also ordered local police to enhance
their defense mechanisms and take active measures to prevent
hostile attacks. At the same time, Goltiao expressed optimism
that the MNLF will go back to the negotiating table. "The MNLF
is consistent with its intent to pursue the implementation of
the cease-fire agreement and to the continuance of the peace
process," he said.
Metro Manila police chief Director Geary Barias said there
are enough forces securing Misuari in New Manila. He said he
does not believe there will be a spillover of hostilities to his
turf although he gave the assurance the NCRPO is ready for any
eventuality. "We will base our action on the intelligence
reports. Tingnan natin kung ano ang magiging assessment ng
intelligence community," Barias said. - Raymond Africa
