One of the MSU bombing suspects arrested, says military

One of the suspects in the bombing attack at the Mindanao State University (MSU) in Marawi City last Sunday has been arrested, the military said Friday.

According to Armed Forces of the Philippines Public Affairs Office (AFP PAO) chief Colonel Xerxes Trinidad, the suspect, identified as Jaffar Gamo Sultan alias Jaf and Kurot, was arrested on Wednesday in Barangay Dulay Proper in Marawi City.

Sultan is allegedly one of the companions of a certain alias Omar, the man tagged as the one who brought an improvised explosive device to the Dimaporo Gymnasium inside the university. 

Trinidad said two motorcycles were recovered during the operation that netted Sultan, who is described as an "accomplice" in the bombing attack.

The search is ongoing for the other suspects involved in the incident, Trinidad said.

Four people were killed and dozens were injured in the bombing incident, which took place inside MSU's gymnasium while a Mass was being held attended by students and teachers.

MSU Marawi Board of Regents Secretary Atty. Shidik Abantas said the university welcomed the development which showed authorities are serious in serving justice for the victims.

“We welcome this update as it shows that our security forces are serious in finding justice to the victims of the unfortunate incident,” he told reporters.

“Rest assured, that the university will extend all the necessary help it can provide to the authorities in order to deliver justice to the victims.” 

The police earlier named two members of the Dawlah Islamiyah - Maute Group as main suspects in the attack, namely Kadapi Mimbesa or “Engineer” and Arsani Membesa or “Khatab.”

The police said based on the CCTV footage, the two suspects were seen exiting the university moments before the explosion. 

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has strongly condemned the attack and ordered the police and military to ensure the protection and safety of civilians, and the security of affected and vulnerable communities.

Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal "Bombit" Alonto Adiong Jr. on Sunday condemned the incident and vowed to make sure justice will be served.

The League of Provinces of the Philippines, while also condemning the bombing, also called on the people of Marawi City to restrain themselves from possible revenge.

MSU also condemned the incident and expressed condolences to the victims and their families.

At least two senators, meanwhile, on Friday called for a swift investigation to unmask the brains behind the bombing.

"We applaud our law enforcers’ arrest of one of the MSU bombing suspects, and urge them to persist until they find the masterminds of this hideous crime," Senator Imee Marcos said in a statement. 

In a separate statement, Senate Minority Leader Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel Jr. urged the government, including law enforcement agencies, to "[f]ollow the evidence and charge those where the lead, always remembering that these people are presumed innocent until proven guilty and their rights should be respected all the time." 

Special Assistant to the President Antonio Lagdameo Jr. arrived in Marawi City to monitor the condition of the survivors of the bomb attack as instructed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., according to a report on “24 Oras”. —with Joviland Rita/BAP/KBK, GMA Integrated News