Abu Sayyaf leader Susukan to be placed under military’s custody – official

August 16, 2020

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is coordinating with the Philippine National Police (PNP) on the transfer of Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Abduljahid "Edang" Susukan under its custody.

In a video message, Major Gen. Edgard Arevalo, AFP spokesperson, said on Sunday that Susukan is facing 23 murder cases, five charges of kidnapping-for-ransom and serious illegal detention and six complaints of frustrated murder.

“The ball is now in the DOJ (Department of Justice) for the prosecution of the cases,” Arevalo said.

“For security considerations and Edang Susukan, being a high-value individual, the AFP through the Judge Advocate General and the Philippine National Police through the Intelligence Group will file before the court a Joint Motion to Transfer Custody of the accused Susukan to the AFP,” he added.

On the granting of amnesty, Arevalo said it is beyond the AFP to comment on the legal matter.

“It is an issue, the resolution of which is rightfully bested on the political decision makers to pass upon based on the recommendation of the Department of Justice and whatever that decision will be, the AFP will support,” he said.

Susukan, one of the most wanted terrorists in the country, was arrested by government authorities at the house of Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) Chairman Nur Misuari in Davao City on Thursday night.

He was brought at the PNP Custodial Center in Camp Rafael Crame in Quezon City on Saturday. Ella Dionisio/DMS