Three more Abus slain, eight firearms seized in yesterday’s operations

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (February 08, 2017) - Casualties on the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) have reached a total of eight (8) as evidenced by the cadavers recovered by troops of the Joint Task Force Sulu in yesterday’s operations in the nearby province of Sulu, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) Information Officer CPT. JO-ANN D. PETINGLAY disclosed that the pursuit launched by the Marine troops against the group of Misaya resulted in another round of armed confrontation, increasing the number of enemy casualties to eight (8). Among those Abu Sayyaf members killed were Karra Kinod, Asbiali Ijiram, Bari Rabah and Hassan Angkong, all of whom have standing warrants of arrest.

Troops further recovered two (2) Grenade rifles; 145 rounds of 7.62 live ammunition; 12 rounds of 5.56 live ammunition; six (6) assorted suspenders with magazine pouch; assorted camouflage; and digital uniforms, Petinglay added.

The Joint Task Force Sulu continues to conduct scouring and pursuit on the evading Abu Sayyaf members. Naval blockade and maritime security patrol off the waters of Capual Island are continuously being conducted.

“Military operations are currently being intensified to contain the Abu Sayyaf Group and facilitate the possible rescue of hostages in the hinterlands of Sulu,” said Major General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.