ILIGAN CITY -- Joint Task Force Sulu commander Major General Ignatius Patrimonio confirmed that a member of Abu Sayyaf Group was killed in an encounter with the military in Sulu on Monday, Feb. 20, 2023.
The armed confrontation between the group of Mudzrimar Sawadjaan, a.k.a. Mundi, and troops of the 111th Division Reconnaissance Company, and 32nd Infantry Battalion broke out in Barangay Kabbon Takas, Patikul, Sulu on Monday morning.
Due to the superior firepower of the 111DRC troopers, the enemies quickly withdrew. While evading the military troops, the ASG members chanced upon the military reinforcement from the 32IB. Another firefight ensued, after which the enemies fled bringing along their casualties with them.
While scouring the encounter site, operating troops recovered one dead body and one M14 rifle. Soldiers also recovered one bandoleer with seven loaded magazines, one Nokia analog phone, and three backpacks loaded with assorted stuff and personal belongings.
The slain ASG member was identified as Rhudymar Habib Jihiran, a.k.a. Gulam.
The two encounters also resulted in the wounding of two soldiers. Both are in stable condition and are currently recuperating at Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital.
Meanwhile, the remains of Jihiran were turned over to the PNP-SOCO for legal requirements and proper disposition.
“Despite our constant call for peaceful resolution of conflicts, some remain coldhearted, hence, we continue to intensify our operations to press on them,” said Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, Commander of Western Mindanao Command.
“Rest assured that our operations are always in adherence to the International Humanitarian Law and other laws promulgated to ensure the safety of the communities,” the WestMinCom Commander added.