ABU SAYAF VERMOORDT TWEEDE CANADEES

[Luke]

Philippines: Metro Manila:
Arrest of suspected militants, foiled bomb plot underline authorities' counter-terrorism capabilities, need to remain vigilant
 
OVERVIEW   

Level:   Notice   
Location:    Metro Manila - Philippines;    
Category:    Terror plot      Last Updated: 12 Oct 2016 04:16 (GMT)

Three individuals allegedly linked to the militant Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) were arrested by the police on 8 October in Quezon City (Metro Manila, Luzon island). Investigations are underway to identify the exact nature and extent of the plot, though initial reports from the police suggest that the suspects were planning to bomb a mall in Quezon City. While the arrests underline the authorities' counter-terrorism capabilities, the foiled plot also underscores the need for members to remain vigilant to their surroundings when travelling to Metro Manila and to report any suspicious behaviour or items to the authorities.

  ADVICE   
•   Travel to Metro Manila can continue. However, members should expect significant security force presence in most urban centres. Follow all official directives. Carry personal identification documents to ease passage through any checkpoints and spot-checks.
•   There is a long-standing risk of attack by either domestic or transnational militants. Exercise caution in poorly secured public spaces. Be particularly vigilant in and around government and military facilities, public transport hubs and crowded shopping and entertainment venues; immediately report any suspicious behaviour or suspect packages to the authorities.
•   Monitor our travel security alerts on the Philippines for further updates.

  MORE DETAIL   
The authorities in recent months have increased security operations in Metro Manila amid concerns over possible retaliatory attacks by the ASG as military offensives against the group continue in Sulu and Basilan provinces (Mindanao island). It should be noted that one of the suspects arrested on 8 October was Malaysian 'bomb expert' Mohammad Amin, who had previously been involved in the ASG's murder and kidnapping activities in Jolo (Sulu). The authorities also claim ties between Amin and four individuals arrested on 27 September in San Juan City (Metro Manila) for supplying high-powered firearms to the ASG in Mindanao.
Security measures
Heightened security is in place across the country as part of the 'state of lawless violence' declared by President Rodrigo Duterte to ensure co-ordination of all ongoing operations against crime and terrorist activity. The declaration followed the 2 September bombing in Davao City (Mindanao island), which killed 14 people and injured more than 70 others.
Until the president lifts the declaration, a visible security presence should be anticipated in and around shopping malls, markets and government buildings nationwide, particularly in Metro Manila. Furthermore, vehicle searches are possible at main entry and exit points to major urban areas and in major transit hubs. While services at main international gateways, including the capital Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL), are operating normally, enhanced security checks could lead to delays to check-in formalities.


  ASSISTANCE       
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