Gov't defends roundup of suspected terrorists

[realdeal22k]

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/net/2004/04/04/gov.t.defends.roundup.of.suspected.terrorists.html

Sunday, April 04, 2004

MANILA -- President Arroyo Friday justified the joint military and police operation that led to the arrest of several suspected Abu Sayyaf members, which she said, was a product of diligence and hard work.

Arroyo said instead of being criticized, the police and military deserve commendation and praise for their success.

"Terrorism is a crime against all humanity, and there are no political or religious undertones to the anti-terror campaign. Questions raised over the legitimacy of the arrests can be fully addressed in the courts. The people can be rest assured that the government is using all means at its disposal to stave off this threat," Arroyo said.

Relatives of two of the six alleged Abu Sayyaf members who were apprehended have complained that they do not belong to the local terrorist group whom Arroyo said were planning to bomb the metropolis.