Troops launch bomb runs vs. ASG in Sulu

ZAMBOANGA CITY -- The military stepped-up its tactical offensive against the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits in the hinterlands of Sulu, military officials said Friday.

Brig. Gen. Divino Rey Pabayo Jr., Joint Task Force Sulu commander, said the heightened offensives against the group ensued after the military validated a report that the bandits are consolidating its forces in the hinterlands of Patikul town.

Pabayo said the Philippine Air Force conducted bomb runs around 6:40 a.m. Friday targeting some 200 combined ASG bandits led Radulan Sahiron and Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan in Sitios Agas-Agas and Limasan, Barangay Kabbon Takas, Patikul.

Sahiron, a one-armed Abu Sayyaf leader, is the remaining oldest bandit leader based in the province of Sulu.

“This military offensive is launched before they could carry out whatever terroristic action they are planning which I believe something big as they have consolidated such a number of terrorists,” Pabayo said.

He said the result of the bombardment “is yet to be determined as clearing operations are still being conducted.”

“The JTF Sulu will never lose focus in hunting down these terrorists that had been wreaking havoc in this part of the country. Hence, it would be better for them to surrender than be hunted as fleeing criminals of the society,” he added.

Pursuit operations are continuously being conducted by the troops of the Joint Task Force Sulu.

“As we build up the offensives against the Abu Sayyaf in Sulu, the safety of our troops is at risk. In this regard, we ask everyone to please offer prayers for our valiant soldiers that they will be spared and be able to return home victoriously,” said Lt. Gen. Arnel Dela Vega, commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom).

The ASG bandits are still holding captives closed to 10 people, including foreigners, they have seized on separate occasions. (PNA)