Abu Sayyaf member Abduraman Mataud Daiyung was arrested in Ermita, Manila Sunday. ANALY LABOR

The Philippine National Police has arrested the suspect behind the Kidapawan City Bus bombing incident in 2002 which claimed the lives of at least seven persons.

PNP Director General Oscar Albayalde said Abdurahman Mataud Daiyung was arrested last Sunday in Ermita, Manila through the joint police-military operations.

Daiyung is facing seven separate cases for kidnapping and serious illegal detention in Basilan and is believed involved in the Golden Harvest Plantation kidnapping in 2001.

The Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) member was believed to be hiding in Manila for a few months before his arrest.

National Capital Region Police Office Chief Guillermo Eleazar said Dayung’s arrest was just an offshoot during their operation last December for another suspect in the Golden Harvest Plantation kidnapping.

The kidnapping of 15 persons during the Golden Harvest Plantation incident was led by Isnilon Hapilon who was later killed during the Marawi City seige in 2017.

Eleazar added they are currently conducting follow-up operations against other members of ASG and are now coordinating with other concerned agencies to identify their pending cases.