Arrest of Filipina in terror case shocks community

RIYADH: The arrest of a Filipino woman in a raid on an illegal explosives factory in the capital has sent shockwaves among the community, even as the country’s envoy is waiting for details surrounding the case.

Philippines Ambassador Ezzuddin Tago is seeking confirmation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the woman suspect’s identity and other details in the case, said a source from the embassy.
A rights group urged the embassy to take into cognizance that the Filipino suspect, identified as Lady Joy Aban Bali Nang, may have been forced into the act by the Syrian bomb maker, who shared the apartment with her. The Syrian was identified as Yasser Mohammed Shafiq Al-Barazi. Both were arrested during a major operation on Wednesday.
The Filipino had reportedly run away from her employer around 15 months ago under circumstances that are yet to be ascertained. She was reportedly involved in sewing explosives belts for the Syrian.
Speaking to Arab News, Rasol Abbas, Bangasamoro International Solidarity Conference (BISC) spokesman, said: “While we are among organizations working to unite and finalize support to the Kingdom in its fight against terrorism and other crimes, such actions are unacceptable.”
John Leonard Monterona, regional coordinator of rights group, Migrante-Middle East (M-ME), called upon the Philippine government to conduct an investigation into the alleged involvement of a runaway female to establish if she is indeed a Filipino.
He said, “It is possible that Joy may not be aware that the belts she was sewing were meant to carry explosives, especially if she was under the threat of the Syrian bomb maker.”
Another Riyadh-based community leader said: “We are renewing our advice and caution to all OFWs (overseas Filipino workers), legal or otherwise, in the Kingdom to strictly abide by the laws of the host country and avoid indulging in activities that are detrimental. We regard Saudi Arabia as our second home, and we should help foster peace and security in the Kingdom in our own little way.”
Riyadh-based community leader Saidy Malic there should be a public pronouncement denouncing this kind of incident. “It serves as a warning to all Filipinos working here to uphold moral values and reject any kind of violence or participation”.