Security forces nab alleged kidnapper in Zamboanga Sibugay

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines -- Combined government security forces captured a man accused of involvement in the kidnapping of an Australian traveler in Payao town, Zamboanga Sibugay on Sunday.

 

Police identified the captured suspect as Marjuk Dacula, allegedly a member of the Sabtal criminal group engaged in kidnapping in the province.

 

Senior Superintendent Romulo Cleve Taboso, provincial police commander of Zamboanga Sibugay, said Dacula was arrested around 8 a.m. on Sunday in Barangay Silal, Payao town.

 

Dacula's arrest came barely a day after the security forces also captured Hasim Calon, a sub-leader of the Ali-Barahama Alih criminal and kidnap-for-ransom group also operating in Zamboanga Sibugay.

 

Taboso said police and military personnel arrested Dacula, who has a standing warrant of arrest for kidnapping issued by RTC Branch 24 in Ipil.

 

He is wanted for his alleged participation in the kidnapping of Australian traveler Richard Warren Rodwell on December 5, 2011 at Barangay Pangi, Ipil town, and Alexa dela Cruz on January 11, 2014 in Barangay Kima, Payao town.

 

Both victims were freed reportedly after ransoms were paid.

 

Taboso said Dacula was also listed as No. 1 in the drugs watchlist and is reportedly primarily involved in the sale and transport of illegal drugs in Payao, Siay, Imelda, Kabasalan, Naga and Ipil towns.

 

The suspect was turned over to the provincial police.