A MALAYSIAN is among the 40 Islamic State (IS) terrorists working with the Abu Sayyaf group to abduct locals on the east coast of Sabah.

The Star today reported intelligence sources claiming Tawau-born Amin Bacho was hiding on Jolo island with his father-in-law, Abu Sayyaf commander Hatib Hajab Sawad, after escaping the Philippines military last year. 

“So far, they (the militants) have carried out local kidnappings in Jolo itself but they are likely to look beyond soon,” the sources were quoted as saying.

Amin is wanted for his involvement in the Darul Islam Sabah group which took part in the Marawi city siege in May last year. The 40 IS members on Jolo island are remnants of the siege who have teamed up with the Abu Sayyaf.

The report also said the group had been behind the numerous abductions on Sabah’s east coast.

The sources said the group was targeting fishing boats and shipping vessels. 

Enrico Nee, a Public Works and Highways engineer, was kidnapped last week by Ajang Ajang, a sub group of the Abu Sayyaf. 

Defence Minister Hishammuddin Hussein has said the army was looking out for pro-IS militants who had exited the Philippines after triggering a battle in Marawi, which is close to Sabah. – February 19, 2018.