An alleged former leader of a kidnap-for-ransom group and key supporter of the Daulah Islamiyah-Maute Group was arrested in Baloi, Lanao del Norte on Thursday, November 6, 2025.

According to the Police Regional Office-Northern Mindanao (PRO-10), the suspect identified as alias “Lucky,” 56, was arrested by virtue of three warrants for kidnapping for ransom, frustrated murder, and violation of the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act (RA 10591).

The court did not allow the suspect to post bail for the kidnapping for ransom and RA 10591 charges but set bail for frustrated murder at P200,000.

During the operation, authorities seized from the suspect an M14 rifle, six magazines with 125 rounds of ammunition, an M1911 .45-caliber pistol, and other paraphernalia allegedly used to support the group’s armed activities.

Based on investigation, the suspect was found to be a former leader of a kidnap-for-ransom group before shifting allegiance to the DI-Maute Group as a logistics provider responsible for procuring guns, medicines, and food supplies to sustain terrorist operations in Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur and neighboring provinces.

PRO-10 added that the suspect was also allegedly linked to several high-profile kidnapping incidents in 2013 and 2014 and was listed as one of the most wanted persons by the Anti-Kidnapping Group.

PRO-10 Director, Brigadier General Christopher Abrahano, said the arrest of the suspect marks a significant operational breakthrough that will cripple the logistical and recruitment networks of the terrorist group.

“This arrest is a major blow to the Daulah Islamiyah–Maute Group. By capturing one of their key supporters, we have crippled their logistics and disrupted their ability to carry out further terroristic activities in our region and nearby provinces,” Abrahano said.