Zamboanga Hostages: Over 160 Residents Used As 'Human Shield' By MNLF

Freed Zamboanga hostages with government officials

At least 160 people are being held hostage by armed men believed to be rogue elements of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) in Zamboanga City.

Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas on Tuesday stressed that the primary mission of the government is to secure the safe release of hostages who are being used as “human shield”.

Roxas, in a statement, said that initial efforts by the government have so far resulted in the release on Tuesday of five hostages, including four children. He added the government forces have already contained the MNLF forces in five areas in Zamboanga.

The DILG chief disclosed that the local crisis management committee has received feelers from several individuals offering help in negotiating for the release of the hostages. He maintained that the government would demand the unconditional release of all hostages in case the leaders of the armed group pushes agree to talk with the local crisis management committee.

At present, Roxas said government officials are working with local executives and community leaders to ensure the evacuation to safer grounds of city residents who are caught in the crossfire between security forces and MNLF rebels.

City officials, he said, are in close coordination with field personnel of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Department of Health (DOH) to make sure that the evacuated residents are protected and well taken care of.

Roxas and Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin are still in Zamboanga City to monitor the city government’s response to the ongoing crisis. Roxas explained that government forces are now focusing on “saving as many lives as possible” after they successfully thwarted the attempt of MNLF rebels to take over vital installations in Zamboanga City.

Roxas noted that the military and police are working hand-in-hand to flush out the remaining armed groups who are still sowing terror in four of the 98 barangays in Zamboanga City. He added the government would also see to it that all those responsible for the foiled siege on Zamboanga would be meted punishment in accordance with the law.