Police step up hunt for Hapids as court issues arrest warrant

From the Mindanao Gold Star Daily (Sep 9): Police step up hunt for Hapids as court issues arrest warrant

AUTHORITIES stepped up the hunt for Usman Hapids, the man accused of exploding the killer bomb at Limketkai center in late July, after a regional court ordered the suspect arrested.

City police director Senior Supt. Graciano Mijares said Judge Bonifacio Macabaya of the 20th branch of the Regional Trial Court has already issued a warrant of arrest against Hapids for multiple murder and multiple frustrated murder.

Eight people, including Misamis Oriental provincial board member Roldan Lagbas, were killed and over 40 others were hurt in the bombing outside Kyla’s Bistro at the Rosario Arcade of Limketkai center in July 26.

Mijares said a copy of the arrest warrant is now with the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG). The CIDG is spearheading the hunt for Usman who, authorities said, is a member of a new terrorist group called Khalifa Islamiyah.

Other law enforcement agencies are also trying to catch Usman, said Mijares.
He said concerned citizens could help if they come forward and provide the police with information that could lead to Usman’s arrest.

Mayor Oscar Moreno earlier offered a P2-million reward for anyone who could help authorities arrest Hapids.

http://www.goldstardailynews.com.ph/mindanao/police-step-up-hunt-for-hapids-as-court-issues-arrest-warrant.html