ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines - The family of an alleged Abu Sayyaf member arrested in Taguig last week has denied the military's claim that their kin has links with the terrorist group.

Sulaiman "Sol" Dawabi, older brother of Abdurahim Gustaham Arabani, the alleged Imam Arabani Jakiran arrested in an upscale condominium in Bonifacio Global City, said authorities got the wrong suspect.

The military claims Jakiran was involved in the Dr. Jose Maria Torres Hospital siege in Basilan in 2001 and in other kidnapping incidents.

Sol, a former overseas Filipino worker, said his brother was in Zamboanga City at the time these incidents happened.

He said they were surprised to see their brother Abdurahim in the custody of authorities.

Sol said authorities may have gotten confused with his brother's family name.

Abdurahim is carrying their other family name, Arabani, while the rest of his brothers carry the family name Dawabi.

He said this was due to their "passport acquisition," and they are willing to explain this to authorities so that his brother can be released.

Sol said their family and his brother, who works as a security guard in Taguig is choosy with friends. He said they are careful whom they mingle with in their community.

Abdurahim, he said, finished his education in Zamboanga City, and only set foot in Zamboanga City when their mother died last 2001. This was the time authorities say his brother, the supposed Imam, participated in kidnappings and other terrorist acts.

Sol said they wish to clear their name as well as give to justice their brother who has never been connected with any criminal group, including the Abu Sayyaf.

Meantime, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) in Zamboanga City has received instructions to conduct a clarificatory investigation into the alleged mistaken identity.

Atty. Frederick Capin of the CHR said they will talk to the family of Arabani to get some information. They will also coordinate with the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group regarding the possible arrival of the alleged Imam in Zamboanga City.