Lawless Group Leader Arrested, Thirty-Six Firearms and Crew-Served Weapons Seized in Sulu

By Jong Cadion

ZAMBOANGA CITY (March 30, 2017)- Joint law enforcement operations of the Joint Task Force Sulu under Col. Cirilito Sobejana and the police led to the arrest of a lawless group leader, death of one of his members, and the seizure of several high-powered firearms in the nearby province of Sulu early yesterday, military official said.

Western Mindanao Command (WesMinCom) Information Officer Cpt. Jo-Ann D. Petinglay disclosed that an exchange of gunfire ensued, resulting to the arrest of Saudi K. Hamja, and the death of one of his followers whose identity is yet to be known. Hamja has a standing warrant of arrest (WOA) for arson and attempted murder.

Also seized were thirty-six (36) firearms and crew-served weapons composed of: one (1) Cal .50 HMG; one (1) 60mm Mortar; seven (7) M14; five (5) Garand rifles; eight (8) M16A1 rifles; four (4) M653; two (2) M79 Grenade Launchers; one (1) AK47 Kalashnikov rifle; one (1) FALN; three (3) caliber .30 Carbine; two (2) M79; one (1) cal .22 rifle.

A civilian was caught in the crossfire and was immediately rushed by the troops to Luuk District Hospital for medical treatment. Meanwhile, no casualty was reported on the government side, Cpt. Petinglay added.

"Our troops on the ground continue to intensify the conduct of focused military operations in Sulu and adhere to the rules of engagement to contain lawless groups and pre-empt the conduct of atrocities in the province,” said Major General Carlito G. Galvez, Jr., Commander, Western Mindanao Command.

"We will continue to support the PNP's efforts against criminality and lawlessness. The entire WestMinCom, will be ready to move and react when needed," MGEN Galvez added. Previously, there were engagements between the government troops and the ASG/KFRG at the said area after focused military operations were directed to the identified safe havens of the lawless group.