August 17, 2000, Philippine Daily Inquirer, How Abu Sayyaf divided P245-M loot,, by Noralyn Mustafa and Alexander Young,

August 17, 2000, Philippine Daily Inquirer, How Abu Sayyaf divided P245-M loot,, by Noralyn Mustafa and Alexander Young,

JOLO, Sulu--Since the military's confirmation of ransom payments to the Abu Sayyaf totaling around P245 million, the question that has fascinated many has been: How are the kidnappers going to spend all that money? A police intelligence report obtained by reporters here reveals that of at least P246 million received by the hostage takers, P201 million went to two of the group's leaders and P45.5 million was distributed among other commanders. Although the reported $25 million in Libyan-sponsored "livelihood" funds is not reflected in the report, it appears that Galib Andang, alias Commander Robot and Mujib Susukan, with a combined strength of 880 men, received the P201-million lion's share of the loot.

But sources say the two Abu Sayyaf group leaders, in whose territory the hostages have been held, kept only a portion for themselves. The two are responsible for the purchase of all supplies, from firearms and ammunition to uniforms and other combat gear to food supplies. The two other known Abu Sayyaf leaders, Abu Pula Jumdail and Nadzmi Sahadulla, alias Commander Global, natives of Indanan town who have a combined force of 600 followers, each received P5 million, according to the report.

The report indicated that those who actually participated in the abduction of 21 Asians and Westerners from the Sipadan dive resort in Malaysia on April 23 were Ustadz Ummal Hanapi, Saji Barah and Parad Said, all of Samak. The three allegedly received P5 million each. A certain Cesar, alias "Habib," and his brother Patta, who apparently operate from the town of Jolo as an "urban" Abu Sayyaf faction, also received P5 million each.

Based in Kasalamatan, a subdivision in the capital town, they boast a combined strength of 300 jama-a (sympathizers). A minor leader, Teling Mujar, who secures the area of Lumnig, Bud Datu in Patikul, received a P5-million cut, although his detachment consists of only 50 men. Hasan Hatimon, with 50 Abu Sayyaf soldiers, and Nandi Udi, with 30 men, pocketed P1.5 million each. Another commander, Saliling Katay, said to be Susukan's right hand man, received P2.5 million to be shared with his 70 men.

Other purchases

And where did the rest of the money go? The well-publicized purchase of a Volvo-powered speedboat cost close to P2 million. A substantial amount is believed to have gone to the acquisition of high-powered, overpriced guns, combat gear, at least 10 motorcycles, and food supplies.

The men who served as "security guards" over the hostages were reportedly awarded P50,000 each, plus an M-14 or M-16 each. Even teenage lookouts were allegedly paid at least 5,000 each.

Money also flowed to the different neighborhoods where the camps are located, as reward for the residents' cooperation. But all these expenditures do not mean that the Abu Sayyaf is running out of cash. If speculations are right, the kidnappers might just be in for the biggest haul of their lives, in the form of $25 million for the rest of the hostages, who negotiators say will be released soon. That is, if the price is right.