ZAMBOANGA CITY (Mindanao Examiner / Sept. 25, 2013) – At least 3 dozen separatist rebels, who stormed Zamboanga City in southern Philippines, have surrendered to authorities Wednesday as troops, backed by helicopters and aircrafts, continue to attack gunmen still fighting their grounds in four areas here.
Officials said rebels, who are loyal followers of Moro National Liberation Front chieftain, Nur Misuari, also surrendered 23 assorted high-powered weapons. One of those who surrendered was Misuari’s alleged nephew, Enir.
The fighting, now on its third week, has already killed and wounded nearly 400 people.
The military said rebel leader Ustadz Khabir Malik is trapped in Santa Catalina. Malik, a lieutenant of Misuari, was earlier reported to have escaped on a speedboat to the Sulu archipelago after sneaking through a military dragnet in Zamboanga.
Misuari, who signed a peace pact with Manila in 1996, accused the Aquino government of failing to honor the deal and for abrogating a tripartite review of the accord.
Mayor Maria Isabelle Salazar said clearing operations still continue in at least four villages – Santa Catalina, Santa Barbara, Rio Hondo and Mariki.
“Ipinapaabot sa mga mamamayan ng Zamboanga na hindi pa pinapayagang bumalik ang mga pamilyang naninirahan sa Sta. Barbara, Sta. Catalina, Rio Hondo at Mariki. Ang mga lugar na ito ay delikado pa dahil sa mga bomba na ikinalat ng MNLF at kasalukuyan pang nililinis ng ating mga kasundaluhan,” she said.
Rebel forces stormed Zamboanga on September 9 and took about 200 hostages and used them as shield against security forces. But 178 of the captives had been freed or escaped from rebels. (Mindanao Examiner)
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