ASG bandit killed, 2 others surrender in separate military ops

MANILA - An Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) member was killed while two others surrendered in Basilan and Sulu as focused military operations against the lawless group continue.

A clash occurred around 2 a.m., Friday, May 19, between government troops and the ASG bandits formerly led by Alhabsy Misaya, who was killed Bangalaw Island, Banguingui, Sulu.

An Abu Sayyaf bandit identified only as “Imbo” was killed in the encounter.

Recovered from the scene were an M-16 automatic rifle, magazines and ammunition, a sachet of methamphetamine hydrochloride or “shabu” and five empty plastic sachets were also found in the suspect's pocket, along with a cellphone.

“Imbo is an ASG/ KFRG (kidnap-for-ransom group) member and trusted contact in Bangalaw Island of the late Misaya,” Joint Task Force Sulu commander Cirilito Sobejana said.

“He is a KFR contact and facilitator in the island and a keeper of Misaya's firearms and pump boats used in kidnapping ventures,” he added.

No casualty was reported on the government's side while it is believed that the bandits suffered heavy losses from the encounter due to the bloodstains seen in the site.

Last Thursday, two ASG members under sub-leader Nurhassan Jamiri surrendered to the Joint Task Force Basilan under Colonel Juvymax Uy.

Janatin Mudjaral Madjakin, alias "Atin", 44, and Aldasid Madjakin alias "Alda", 19, surrendered to troops of the 3rd Scout Ranger Battalion around 9:30 p.m. in Camp Cordero, Campo Uno in Lamitan City, Basilan.

The bandits yielded an M16-A1 rifle and an M-79, following their surrender.

Uy said the pair decided to return to the folds of the law due to the relentless military operations against the ASG. (PNA)