Roxas dispels link between SAF target and threat on Pope Francis

MANILA, Philippines‎–The Malaysian bomb expert who was supposed to be arrested by the Special Action Force (SAF) has “no connection” to the reported suicide bombing threat during Pope Francis’ visit, Interior Secretary Mar Roxas said on Tuesday.

“Just for the sake of clarity, Marwan is a high-value target both internationally and locally. Matagal na sya hinahabol, matagal na syang most wanted terrorist target ng pulis and other security forces,” Roxas said.

Jemaah Islamiyah bomb maker Zulkili bin Hir or “Commander Marwan” was to be arrested by 392 SAF commandos in Mamasapano, Maguindanao, when the “misencounter” with combined forces of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters happened, resulting in at least 44 deaths.

Marwan, a most wanted terrorist of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, has a $5-million bounty on his head.

Reports surfaced during the arrival of Pope Francis in the Philippines on January 15 that authorities arrested a Malaysian national for attempting to carry out a suicide bombing.

Asked if Marwan was the same Malaysian national, Roxas, who was among the officials overseeing the Pope’s security, said there was “no connection.”

“Sa kalagitnaan ng papal visit, may pumasok na unsubstantiated na intelligence information na tumutukoy sa Malaysian national na may plano daw either through backpack vest na maging suicide bomber,” Roxas said. “Sinundan itong lead na ito, walang nakitang substantiation.”

A board of inquiry has been formed by Philippine National Police officer-in-charge Deputy Director General Leonardo Espina‎ to look into the lapses committed by the officers and commanders ‎during the deadly operation.

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