Five Abus killed, one nabbed in intensified military operations in Sulu

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (February 07, 2017) - Amid the intensified conduct of focused military operations launched by the Joint Task Force Sulu, five (5) members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) under sub-leader Alhabsy Misaya were killed, while another was captured by operating troops in Sitio Talok Talok, Capual, in the nearby province of Sulu this morning, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) Information Officer Cpt. Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that troops of the Marine Special Operations Group (MARSOG) engaged in a 20-minute armed confrontation with members of the Abu Sayyaf under Misaya with the enemy side incurring several casualties, while negative on the government side.

Petinglay also added that the said encounter further resulted in the apprehension of an Abu Sayyaf member and the seizure of eight (8) high-powered firearms (four M16, four M14) belonging to the enemy. Troops also recovered the five (5) cadavers of the said Abu Sayyaf members.

Available forces proceeded to the area of engagement to reinforce the engaging troops and conduct pursuit. Naval forces conducted blockade along the waters of Capual Island for possible interception of the fleeing Abu Sayyafs.

The Joint Task Force Sulu is continuously conducting clearing and hot pursuit operations in Capuan Island for possible recovery of kidnap victims.

Alhabsy Misaya is the sub-leader of the ASG based in Indanan, Sulu with more or less 40 followers.

Petinglay also said that the military continues to intensify the conduct of focused military operations against the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu in line with the no let-up campaign of the President against the proliferation of kidnappings and other atrocities instigated by the terrorist group in the province.

Major General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., Commander, Western Mindanao Command said, “This operational success manifests the commitment of the AFP in fulfilling its mandate of bringing internal peace and security in the province of Sulu. Rest assured that we will continue to abide by the rules of engagement and contain the Abu Sayyaf Group with the assistance of the local government and the community.”

Major General Galvez further said that as a sign of respect, the remains of the slain Abu Sayyaf members will be given proper burial in accordance with the Muslim rites.