ASG member falls; yields explosives, firearms

ZAMBOANGA CITY — Police arrested a suspected member of the Abu Sayyaf Group-Urban Terrorist Group (ASG-UTG) at his temporary residence in a predominantly Muslim village in the eastern district of this city.

Zamboanga City Police Office (ZCPO) Director P/Col. Fidel Fortaleza Jr. said law enforcement agencies executed a search warrant at the residence of a man identified as Isnaji in Purok 4, Barangay Muti, on Saturday.

The warrant was served for alleged violations of Republic Act 10591 (Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act) and Republic Act 9516 (Unlawful Possession of Explosives).

Isnaji, who was at his residence when the warrant was served, was immediately taken into custody, according to police.

Authorities alleged that Isnaji is involved in gun-running activities and the distribution and sale of illegal drugs.

Fortaleza added that Isnaji is an active member of the ASG-UTG faction, which police say is responsible for numerous kidnappings and killings.

During the search of his residence, operatives seized several high-powered firearms and explosives.

The Zamboanga City Police Office reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the public from threats posed by criminal and terrorist elements.

The operation, according to the ZCPO, reflects sustained efforts to dismantle networks engaged in violence and sends a strong message that terrorism will not be allowed to exist in the city.