Misuari claims Malaysian execs using Moros in kidnap-for-ransom activities 

On his first day as a free man since the attack in Zamboanga City in 2013, Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) founding chairman Nur Misuari on Thursday claimed that Malaysia had been using his people in kidnap for ransom activities. 

Misuari, whose trial and warrant of arrest were suspended for six months for the peace talks, was speaking to the press during his visit in Malacañang upon the invitation of President Rodrigo Duterte. 

"Our source is saying that since Malaysia is the one [that] is involved in this kidnapping for ransom, probably one day, I will drag their leaders into that International Criminal Court. I have all the evidences in my hands. My people are everywhere and besides, they cannot escape because they are hiring my own people," Misuari said. 

"Even Sipadan, they hired my cadre officers, because they opt for the millions," he added. 

By Sipadan, he was referring to the hostage crisis in Malaysia's Sipadan Island in 2000 where 21 foreign tourists were kidnapped. The Abu Sayyaf was behind the kidnappings and the group brought their hostages to Sulu.  

Misuari said the Malaysians also tried to meet him in Saudi Arabia and in Indonesia through his nephew. 

"I said, 'Stop it, I don’t have the heart to see these people after they make this conspiracy to destroy the honor and integrity of my people,'" he continued. 

Meanwhile, Duterte is set to visit Malaysia where he is expected to raise the issue of piracy. But the date of his trip are yet to be announced.

In 2001, Misuari was arrested in Sabah, Malaysia as he was facing charges for instigating a rebellion.

Malaysia also served as the third party facilitator for the peace negotionals between the Philippines government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. —RSJ/NB, GMA News