3 Abus killed in Sulu clash

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Three Abu Sayyaf bandits were killed in an encounter with soldiers in Indanan, Sulu yesterday.

Soldiers belonging to the Second Special Forces Battalion launched the offensive in Barangay Kuppong at around 4:30 a.m.

One of the fatalities was identified as Pakam Sakam Sappari, who was tagged in recent kidnappings in Sulu.

On Wednesday, a soldier was killed while 10 others were wounded in an encounter in Patikul.

Personnel of the 32nd Infantry Battalion led by Lt. Col. Ronaldo Mateo clashed with the bandits led by Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan in Sitio Kan Apo Aluk, Barangay Panglayahan at around 1:55 p.m., Brig. Gen. Divino Rey Pabayo, Joint Task Force Sulu commander, said.

Government forces have been pursuing Abu Sayyaf bandits to recover at least 10 captives, including a seven-year-old snatched from Tawi-Tawi last June 25.