A man wanted for kidnapping and went into hiding for 16 years was arrested in Basilan.

Personnel of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) arrested the suspect identified as alias “Yesser” by virtue of a warrant for kidnapping and illegal detention issued by a court in Zamboanga City in 2009.

The court did not allow the accused to post bail.

CIDG said the accused was allegedly involved in high-profile abduction and kidnapping incidents in Mindanao.

CIDG director, Major General Nicolas Torre III, lauded the operating team for the arrest of the suspect who had been evading authorities for 16 years.

“Let this serves as a warning to all wanted persons and fugitives, your days are numbered, the CIDG will find you wherever you are. Better surrender yourself to the authorities,” Torre said.

“Rest assured that your CIDG is relentless and steadfast in accounting and catching criminals and wanted persons across the country, in land or sea, and even beyond borders,” he added.