M'sian arrested in Philippines admits to being MNLF member

The man who claimed to be a Malaysian and was arrested by the Philippine authorities in Zamboanga City on Oct 4, has admitted to being a member of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).

The Foreign Affairs Minister (Wisma Putra) which was informed of the 55-year-old man's arrest was also told by the Philippine authorities of his admission to being an MNLF member.

"However, this matter is still under investigation by the Philippine authorities," it said in a statement Thursday.

The Foreign Ministry (Wisma Putra) said the man was arrested for illegal entry into the Philippines as he had no valid travel documents with him.

The man is now being detained at the Philippine Immigration Bureau's detention centre in Bicutan, Taguic City, Manila and will be sent home after getting the green light from the Philippine National Bureau of Investigation. "The Malaysian embassy in Manila will continue to be in contact with the Philippine authorities regarding the case and is prepared to provide appropriate consular assistance to the detained man," Wisma Putra said in the statement.

It was reported that more than 400 MNLF fighters launched attacks on Zamboanga City to capture the city hall building and they also hoisted the 'Republik Bangsamoro Merdeka' flag.

In the three-week battle that ensued with Philippine security forces, about 190 MNLF fighters were killed and 292 suspects surrendered or were arrested, while 23 soldiers and policemen were killed, 180 others injured and 12 civilians also killed.