PNP News Releases 2005

PRESS STATEMENT OF POLICE DIRECTOR GENERAL ARTURO C LOMIBAO

The fight against terrorism is a long, tedious and emotional battle.

Along the way there are hits and misses. Every news of an accomplishment, big or small, signifying a dent on the terrorists' capability to instill fear and uncertainty in the lives of the Filipino people, is welcome news.

Hardworking intelligence operatives spent days and nights on one specific target: Radhulan Sahiron alias Commander Putol, an Abu Sayyaf leader who is included in the $5 million dollar reward list offered by the US government. We made an announcement last night that we got him.

We got one alright, but only a look alike.

It is but right to correct that mistake and bring back the person invited for questioning to his family. We assure everyone that his rights were not violated.

We apologize for the unintentional lapse, all in a days' work, if we may add.

BUT THE INCIDENT HIGHLIGHTS KEY IMPORTANT ELEMENTS IN THE GOVERNMENT'S FIGHT AGAINST TERRORISM.

ONE, THE WAR ON TERROR IS PERSONAL AND PASSIONATE.

TWO, THE WAR ON TERROR IS CONTINUING AND SUSTAINED.

Your government is waging a war that needs all these ingredients and we assure every Filipino that your government is utilizing all its assets to cripple the enemy.

The terror cells were significantly destroyed by recent arrests, including that of top RSM Leader AHMAD SANTOS. A major terror operation because of that arrest.

WE ACKNOWLEDGE THIS INCIDENT AS A CONSTANT REMINDER THAT THE ENEMY IS STILL OUT THERE.