Google map of Barangay Kagay, Indanan, Sulu.
ZAMBOANGA CITY – An Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandit was killed while three soldiers were wounded in a firefight that ensued while government troops were on focused military operations in Sulu province, officials said Friday.
Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom), said troops under the Joint Task Force (JTF)-Sulu were conducting combat operations when they clashed with a group of ASG bandits early Friday in Barangay Kagay, Indanan, Sulu.
Vinluan said the ASG bandits withdrew in different directions, leaving behind the remains of their slain comrade following a five-minute firefight.
Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, JTF-Sulu commander, identified the slain ASG bandit as Arab Undo, whose remains were taken to Camp General Teodulfo Bautista for proper disposition.
Gonzales said Undo was one of the remaining followers of slain ASG senior leader Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan.
The identities of the wounded soldiers were not immediately known, except that they belong to the Army's 1101st Infantry Brigade.
“The battle casualties (wounded soldiers) were immediately extricated from the area and rushed to Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital for medical attention and they are now in stable condition,” said Brig. Gen. Antonio Bautista, the Army's 1101st Infantry Brigade commander.
Bautista said the troops recovered during the clearing operations a caliber .45 pistol, a backpack, one solar panel, personal belongings, and food supplies.
The JTF-Sulu has so far neutralized a total of 94 ASG members, eight of which were killed, 76 surrendered, and 10 were apprehended since January this year. (PNA)
