Alleged Maute member collared in Batangas City

September 29, 2019

An alleged member of a terrorist group was captured Friday evening during an implementation of a search warrant for illegal possession of explosives in Batangas City.

According to Calabarzon Police Regional Director Brigadier General Edward Carranza, the alleged Dawlah Islamiyah Lanao/ Maute Group member identified as Jafar Abdul Nazer was nabbed in his residence.

Nazer was apprehended for violation of Presidential Decree No. 1866 as amended by Republic Act 9516 or illegal possession of explosives.

Carranza said initial investigation showed Nazer was from Lanao del Sur and was running a cellphone accessories shop in Batangas City while hiding his identity.

Police also discovered the alleged terrorist group member is related to Abu Dar, Maute's current amir, and Abu Zacaria who serves as the terrorist group's intelligence officer at Calanugas, Pagayawan, Malabang in Lanao del Sur.

Initial surveillance by authorities revealed that Nazer frequently moved his shop in various stalls. He was then seen carrying a black pouch containing a suspected hand grenade.

“Considered armed and dangerous, my men immediately requested for the search warrant which was later granted and approved by Hon. Dorcas P Ferirols- Perez, RTC (Regional Trial Court) Br. (Branch) 84, Batangas City,” said Carranza.

Authorities seized a half pound of TNT high explosive, an M67 hand grenade, and a black pouch.

“We shall not remain complacent by the possible terrorist attacks coming from these kinds of people. We shall protect the citizens of this region from any acts of terrorism. I also appeal to the public to remain calm and report suspicious person and actions so that we could earlier avoid the worst incident and go after these suspects,” Carranza added. Cristina Eloisa Baclig/DMS