DAVAO CITY, Philippines — The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group’s Davao regional office has taken custody of alleged top New People’s Army (NPA) leader Eric Jun Casilao, who was arrested in Langkawi, Malaysia last week while on his way to Thailand.
Casilao, alleged secretary general of the NPA’s Southern Mindanao Regional Committee, was brought here on Monday night.
Sources said Casilao would be held at the Davao City jail after his arrest warrants are returned to the courts.
Capt. Mark Anthony Tito, spokesman for the Army’s 10th Infantry Division, said Casilao is facing charges of kidnapping and serious illegal detention, three counts of murder and four counts of attempted murder. The arrest warrants were issued by various courts in Davao de Oro and Compostela Valley.
The government had offered a reward of P5.4 million for information leading to Casilao’s arrest.
Casilao’s wife May Vargas, who is also wanted for kidnapping, serious illegal detention and attempted murders, likewise reportedly fled to Malaysia to escape the government’s crackdown.
Philippine National Police chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. said Casilao’s arrest sends a message to other rebels that they would be captured and held accountable for their crimes.
Meanwhile, human rights group Karapatan expressed concern that Casilao has not been seen by his family and lawyers since his arrest. – Emmanuel Tupas