Philippines asks Malaysia to turn over terror suspects

Manila: Philippine officials said they have asked Malaysia to turn over at least four Filipino terror suspects arrested on allegations they took part in the 2000 kidnappings of 21 European tourists and Asian resort workers.

Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita said on Wednesday that Malaysia has agreed to transfer the suspected members of the brutal Abu Sayyaf group who fled to the wealthy Southeast Asian country to hide from Philippine authorities.

Ermita said the arrangement shows the importance of regional cooperation in battling terrorism.

Ricardo Blancaflor of the Philippine Anti-Terrorism Council said the four were arrested in recent years for non-terrorism offences, including violation of Malaysia's immigration laws.