Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) |
Police said around 200 MNLF members were in the vehicles bearing the MNLF flags of Lanao, Agusan, Bukidnon and Central Mindanao. The MNLF members were unarmed.
The convoy triggered panic among residents amid fears of a repeat of the 2013 siege that left hundreds of people dead and thousands homeless.
Senior Inspector Helen Galvez, spokesperson for the Zamboanga City police, said soldiers belonging to the 21st Infantry Battalion escorted the convoy to the pier.
Henry Lacaran, MNLF regional committee coordinator, said they would go to Sulu to show their support for MNLF chairman Nur Misuari, who is set to meet with President Duterte this week.
The President said he would seek Misuari’s support for the proposed shift to a federal form of government.
Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar said the arrival of MNLF members was not coordinated with the city government.