PNP to continue its pursuit operations in Sulu

Ma. Lourdes “Miami” Ebilane
June 18, 2008
Story: PNP to continue its pursuit operations in Sulu

Philippine National Police will continue their on going operations in Sulu especially now that kidnapped victims have been freed by their abductors.

Ces Drilon together with her cameraman Jimmy Encarnacion and Professot Octavio Dinampo was freed last June 17, 11:50 pm.

PNP Spokesperson Chief Supt. Nicanor Bartolome said, “Pursuit operations has been ongoing or continuing. Also, we are doing manhunt operations to the two that had been identified as abductors of Ces and company.” He is referring to Sulayman Patta alias Amah Ma’as or Abu Haris and certain Walid alias Tuan Wals who was Php1 million bounty (Php500,000 each).

Bartolome did not divulge the number of troops who will administer the operations but admits that they have troops already deployed in the area.

He also said that they are still validating some names who are allegedly involved in the kidnapping of Drilon and others and will file charges against them.

Bartolome also said that there were no ransom paid in the release of the news team, and not sure of the promised livelihood projects on the Abu Sayyaf, “We have different tasks also the negotiators have different tasks. Their task is to coordinate well on the abductors for the safe release of the victims. Ours is different, it is just like that,” Bartolome said. He also said that they will continue on what they have started.

He added that Chief PNP Avelino Razon had ordered to investigate the alleged payment of ransom.

Meanwhile, Bartolome said that they will not ban media from going their to cover news events, but he appealed to the media to coordinate with the PNP and the AFP for security reasons.