5 Abus slain, 5 wounded in Sulu encounters

By JONG D. CADION

PAGADAIAN CITY (July 21, 2018) - Amid the intensified conduct of focused military operations, troops of the 45th Infantry Battalion led by Lieutenant Colonel Salvador encountered more or less 20 Abu Sayyaf members under sub leader Almujer Yaddah in the boundary of Barangay Tanum and Liang, Patikul, Sulu at midnight Friday, Military Official said.

LTC Gerry M. Besana, WesMinCom spokesperson disclosed that the firefight resulted to four killed and five wounded on the enemy side based on human intelligence while casualties on the government side include one killed and two wounded who were immediately evacuated to Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital.

“The wounded soldiers were airlifted to Camp Navarro General Hospital early this morning for further medication,” said BGen Divino Rey Pabayo, JTF Sulu Commander.

Meanwhile, while conducting pursuit operations, elements of the 1st Scout Ranger Battalion led by Major Grezula engaged in an armed confrontation with more or less 20 Abu Sayyaf Group members under Almadjan Sahidjuana .k.a Apoh Mike in Barangay Tabu-Bato, Maimbung, Sulu at 9:30am today, LTC Besana added.

LTC Besana said, heavy skirmishes ensued, resulting to one enemy killed based on body count and recovery of one M16 rifle.

“My salute to our fallen soldier and my prayers for the other two who are currently recuperating at CNGH,” said Lieutenant General Arnel B. Dela Vega, Commander, Western Mindanao Command.

        “With the support from the local government and the populace, the sickening problem of terrorism will soon be put to an end,” he added. “The intensification of the military operations is buoyed by the renewed vigor of those who are against violent extremism.”