Cops obtain DNA samples from Dr Mahmud’s next of kin

PUTRAJAYA: Police are ready to work with their counterparts in the Philippines to verify the death of Malaysian militant Dr Mahmud Ahmad.

Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Mohd Fuzi Harun said they have obtained DNA samples from Dr Mahmud’s next-of-kin living in Selayang.

He, however, said the Philippines has not officially made a request for the samples.

“Based on information from the Philippines, they have confirmed that Dr Mahmud was killed in a battle with the army in Marawi city.

“However, we have yet to identify the body, which is under the control of the army.

“There has not been a request from the Philippines for DNA samples yet, but we made a proactive move to obtain them from Dr Mahmud’s next-of-kin for the purpose of verification.

“If there is a request, we are ready to give it to our counterparts,” said Fuzi after the Home Ministry’s monthly assembly.

On Oct 19, Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte announced that Dr Mahmud has been killed in Marawi.

The former lecturer was poised to become the new leader of the Islamic State (IS) faction in Marawi.

He is believed to be the financier for the Marawi attack, and is said to have received more than RM500,000 from IS militants and sympathisers.