MILF denies coddling suspects in 2009 Maguindanao massacre

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 22): MILF denies coddling suspects in 2009 Maguindanao massacre

The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) on Thursday denied reports that some of its men are coddling suspects in the infamous Nov. 23, 2009 “Maguindanao Massacre,” which left 58 people dead, including 33 journalists. In a statement, Von Al-Haq, speaking for the MILF’s Bangsamoro Islamic Armed Forces (BIAF), said their organization has been religiously observing the provisions of the 1997 general agreement on cessation of hostilities with the government. Among its provisions was clearly stated that the MILF will not harbor fugitives and terrorists. Should they seek refuge in MILF identified areas, they will be turned over to the government, Al Haq said. Al-Haq also denied reports that some of the massacre suspects, among them Bahnarin Ampatuan, a grandson of the detained former Maguindanao Gov. Andal Ampatuan Sr., have already joined the MILF. He said MILF forces in Maguindano and nearby areas are working on a mechanism with the government ceasefire panel about possible arrests of suspects in the bloody carnage.....

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