Philippine police officials said Wednesday a suspected member of the Abu Sayyaf terrorist organization has been arrested.
National Police Chief Superintendent Agrimero Cruz says Adzhar Patta Mawalil was captured by security forces Tuesday on the southern island of Jolo.
Mawalil, who also goes by the name of Ajang Nedz Mawalil, is suspected of taking part in the kidnapping of three international Red Cross workers in 2009 on Jolo, and the beheadings of seven laborers in 2010. Police say Mawalil was a member of the Abu Sayyaf group headed by Albader Parad.
The three Red Cross workers were eventually released unharmed.