Intensified operations against Sayyafs ongoing in Sulu

By Jong Cadion

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur (December 11, 2016) - Operating troops of the 35th Infantry Battalion under the Joint Task Force Sulu while conducting focused military operations engaged in an armed confrontation with more or less 150 Abu Sayyaf members led by top leader Radullan Sahiron and Sub Leaders Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan, Yasser Igasan, and Mujer Yadah in Bud Taming, Brgy Kabbontakkas, Patikul, Sulu, Southern Philippines Saturday morning, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) Spokesperson Maj. Filemon I. Tan Jr. disclosed that the said armed confrontation lasted for an hour and 45 minutes before the Abu Sayyaf withdrew, bringing with them a number of their casualties.

As a result, the government suffered three (3) killed and seventeen (17) wounded in action, while undermined on the ASG.

Fire support and close air support were provided to the engaging troops. Adjacent units also conducted blocking and pursuit operations.

Tan also said that the casualties were immediately extricated from the area of engagement. Fifteen (15) were slightly wounded and were brought to KHTB hospital while two (2) others who needed additional medical attention were airlifted to Zamboanga City for further medical attention at the Camp Navarro General Hospital.

The JTF Sulu continues to conduct pursuit operations and the conduct of focused military operations to neutralize the ASG in Sulu.