Philippine troops have arrested a suspected Muslim militant linked to the kidnapping three years ago of 20 Filipinos and Americans, a military spokesman said. Usman Lidjal was arrested in the southern city of Zamboanga late Wednesday on suspicion of providing safe haven and support to Abu Sayyaf guerrillas who kidnapped 17 Filipinos and three Americans in May 2001, according to Lt. Col. Daniel Lucero. Several hostages, including American Guillermo Sobero, were beheaded, while missionary Martin Burnham and a Filipino were killed in a military rescue a year later. The kidnapping at the Dos Palmas resort on the western island of Palawan prompted the United States to send troops and instructors two years ago to help Filipino troops dislodge the militants from their jungle lairs on Basilan island. Full Story
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