Military intensifies manhunt for Basilan ambush mastermind

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur – The military has intensified the manhunt against the wanted leader of the group allegedly behind the recent ambushes of soldiers in Basilan.

Maj. Gen. Jose Vladimir Cagara, acting commander of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom), directed troops to intensify operations against Saddam Siddick, whom he described as a criminal suspect “attempting to make a statement” following the two consecutive attacks against members of the 45^th Infantry Battalion.

Siddick is wanted for five criminal cases, including murder, even before his group allegedly ambushed troops on  Oct. 5 in Tipo-Tipo and on Oct. 8 in Lamitan City.

Article continues after this advertisement

READ: Bangsamoro human rights body investigates 2 Basilan ambushes

FEATURED STORIES

NEWSINFO

NEWSINFO

NEWSINFO

At least two dozen soldiers and two civilians were wounded in the twin attacks. One of the soldiers died later.

“My instruction to them is there should be no third ambush,” Cagara told reporters.

Cagara said that the primary mandate for troops on the ground is to protect non-combatants.

“Protect the civilians—no civilians should be harmed,” Cagara said, reiterating the need to implement proactive measures immediately.

Article continues after this advertisement

These measures include conducting clearing operations, securing main supply routes, coordinating closely with local government units, activating intelligence networks, and strengthening operational security.

Despite the recent attacks, Cagara dismissed Siddick’s capability to sustain his campaign against government forces.

Article continues after this advertisement

“He is not to be feared… I never consider him a threat,” Cagara said, noting that military assets and capabilities will be fully deployed to track down the group. “If we were able to get larger armed groups in other areas, we can certainly get him here. We will not stop. His operational area is small.”

READ: Sumisip LGU condemns attacks on Army troops in Basilan

Military intelligence suggests Siddick’s actions may be driven by retaliation following an earlier military operation that led to the neutralization of his wife. Aside from leading an armed group, Siddick is also allegedly involved in the illegal drug trade in the province.

“If he wants to surrender, that would be better. I am giving them (soldiers) at least a month to find and get the (alleged) perpetrator.”

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.

Your subscription has been successful.

Cagara said local officials, including political leaders like Basilan Governor Mujiv Hataman, are actively implementing measures to aid security forces to maintain peace and order across the island province./coa