AVENTAJADO REJECTS PNP'S OFFER SULU RESCUE OPERATIONS
MANILA (ABS-CBN) - Chief government negotiator Robert Aventajado on Saturday
blocked a request by National Police Chief Panfilo Lacson to take over the Basilan and
Sulu hostage crises.
Aventajado made the gesture following Lacson's reported disclosure that he
would resort to a commando-type operation to rescue the hostages.
The chief negotiator, who is also the presidential adviser on Flagship
Projects asked the PNP not to take such action as it would only complicate even more the
situation.
"He (Lacson) doesn't know the status of the ongoing negotiations. He
should have consulted the panel first before announcing his plan in order to alarm the Abu
Sayyaf," Aventajado said.
Muslim bandits the Abu Sayyaf have reportedly split into several groups the
20 foreigners they abducted from a Sipadan Island beach resort last April 23. The group
also seized a German journalist and 13 members of the Jesus Miracle Crusade led by
televangelist Wilde Almeda last week.
Aside from the 34 hostages in Sulu, another Abu Sayyaf faction is also
keeping three more captives in Basilan province.
A Malacañang official who requested anonymity likewise downplayed the
seriousness of Lacson when he made such an announcement.
"If Lacson really meant it, he will not make such announcement. Even
Secretary Aventajado does not believe that such was really made by General Lacson. I
think, he just said that for the sake of saying it," the official said.
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