GOVERNMENT security forces arrested an explosive expert of the Sulu-Based Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in a law enforcement operation Tuesday, November 23, in Zamboanga City.

Police Colonel Rexmel Reyes, Zamboanga City Police Office (ZCPO) director, identified the arrested suspect as Kalmi Mustala, 42, who is currently residing in Recodo village, west of Zamboanga City.

Reyes said Mustala was arrested in a law enforcement around 9 a.m. Tuesday, November 23, in Sitio Caragasan, Maasin village.

Mustala has standing warrants of arrest for illegal possession of explosives, double frustrated murder, and double attempted murder issued on June 19, 2021 by the court of Jolo, Sulu with no bail recommended, according to Reyes.

He said Mustala will be turned over to the custody of the Jolo Municipal Police Station while investigation is also being conducted to determine the extent of his involvement in the atrocities committed by the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu. (SunStar Zamboanga)