Abu’s high-powered firearm, war materiel seized by troops in Sulu

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (February 24, 2017)- Elements of the Joint Task Force Sulu recovered a high-powered firearm and other war materiel belonging to the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in a clearing operation launched in Barangay Paligi, Indanan, Sulu Southern Philippines yesterday morning, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) Information Officer Cpt. Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that recovered by troops of the 16^th Infantry Battalion were an M16A1 Armalite rifle with eight (8) magazines and 123 rounds of ammunition; two (2) hammocks; a pair of combat boots; and a bandoleer belonging to the Abu Sayyaf members.

Petinglay said that military troops were scouring the area after a 10-minute clash with the group of Aldin Bagadi in Indanan. The troops continue to conduct pursuit on the evading Abu Sayyaf members,who brought with them their casualties.

“The recent seizure only proves that the Abu Sayyaf members are hiding their armaments because their corridors have already been narrowed,” said Major General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., Commander, Western Mindanao Command. “They are guising as civilians to evade government forces and civilians who report their whereabouts.”

Intensified military operations are ongoing against the Abu Sayyafs in the province of Sulu.