Abu Sayyaf targets more Mayors for extortion

Recently, the ARMM have been the target of the extremist Abu Sayyaf insurgents. Basilan Mayors still receive text messages from Abu Sayyaf, asking for a “jakat”(A Muslim term for a monetary gift). Gov. Mujiv Hataman spoke along with another 13 more mayors of the Basilan Province, requesting for a manifesto to support their campaign against the extortion activities of Abu Sayyaf group.

 He also said, "All those who refused to heed payment are threatened to be bombed". In addition to that, this is not just a one-time extortion, they are being ask for a monthly basis contribution in exchange for not being threatened. From larger to smaller businesses in the province, people receive text messages asking for “jakat”. Even the small vendors on markets are not excused from these extortionist.

 A district engineer of the province also added that he recently received a call from a person whom he believes that it was Furuji Indima from the Abu Sayyaf group, asking for 200,000 monthly contribution.

 On the other hand, the Armed Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang oredered Lt. Gen. Rustico Guerrero to coordinate with the local police in the region for the security of the mayors.