Abu bandit arrested in Basilan

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — An Abu Sayyaf bandit  tagged in the kidnapping of teachers and their students 18 years ago was arrested in Basilan yesterday. 

Masser Lim Omar, 57, was collared by personnel of the Isabela City police, 15th Special Forces Company, Maritime Police and 304th Philippine Air Force intelligence unit  at his residence on Malawali island at about 2:30 a.m. 

Chief Superintendent Billy Beltran, Zamboanga peninsula police director, said the arrest was based on a warrant issued by a court in Pasig City.

Omar was tagged in the kidnapping of 53 teachers and students of the Claret and Tumahubong Elementary schools in Barangay Tumahubong, Sumisip town on March 2000. 

The court did not recommend bail.