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Philippines

3 ASG bandits killed in 2 Basilan clashes

Philippines

3 ASG bandits killed in 2 Basilan clashes

By Philippine News Agency

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Three Basilan-based Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits were killed in two separate clashes as government troops continue the offensive against the terrorists in that province, military officials announced Monday.

Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), said the clash happened around 7:40 a.m. Sunday, May 16, in Sitio Kura-Kura, Barangay Baiwas, Sumisip, Basilan.

Vinluan said the troops were conducting focused military operations when they clashed with a group of ASG bandits led by mid-level leader Pasil Bayali in Sitio Kura-Kura, Barangay Baiwas.

The firefight lasted for about 30 minutes afterwhich the ASG bandits scampered in different directions leaving the remains of their two slain companions.

“We are still verifying the identification of the slain terrorist,” said Brig. Gen. Domingo Gobway, commander of the Joint Task Force Basilan.

Gobway said another firefight ensued for about 15 minutes ensued, while the reinforcing troops were conducting clearing operations in the area that resulted in the death of another ASG bandit and the recovery of one M-16 Armalite rifle.

He said they are grateful that no soldier was hurt during the successive encounters.

“We thank the active participation of the local officials and the community of their desire to end terrorism by providing us real time information for the neutralization of the terrorists. Rest assured that we will continue to bolster our operations to keep the communities safe and secured,” Vinluan said.

Since January, a total of 18 ASG bandits were neutralized in Basilan province, four of whom were killed, 13 surrendered, and one was apprehended.

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