Under orders from Chief Superintendent Prospero Noble, a heavily guarded convoy spirited Estrada out of a military hospital toward the military intelligence compound on Sunday to prevent a purported attempt to spring the detainee.

Officials said there were credible intelligence reports that an unnamed group plotted to rescue Estrada to take advantage of the mutiny by some 300 soldiers.

The soldiers, who surrendered late Sunday, had demanded the resignation of President Gloria Arroyo, who was swept to power in 2001 when Estrada was ousted by a military-backed popular uprising.

But Estrada lawyer Manuel Pamaran said the mutiny had nothing to do with the detained leader, stressing the police failed to secure a court order to move him.

"The court should make him (Noble) appear and explain why it did happen," Pamaran said. "Approval of the court cannot be dispensed with. Only the court has the power to order his transfer of confinement."

While not directly linking Estrada to the mutiny, officials said they had raided two Manila homes allegedly owned by him and a former aide where the soldiers allegedly plotted their move.

Interior Secretary Jose Lina on Monday said authorities were filing rebellion charges against key Estrada ally, opposition senator Gregorio Honasan, who allegedly helped plan Sunday's mutiny.

WAR.WIRE