2 civilians executed by withdrawing Abu Sayyaf men in Basilan

ZAMBOANGA CITY — Tausug-speaking Abu Sayyaf members executed two civilians at the height of an encounter in Al Barka town, Basilan, on Wednesday afternoon.

Al Barka Mayor Darussalam Lajid confirmed the killing of two male residents.

He said one of the victims was a 50-year old man.

“They were in the vicinity at the height of the firefight, and unfortunately, they were spotted by the withdrawing ASG who were all from Jolo (Sulu) because they only spoke Tausug,” the mayor said.

The first clash happend at 9 a.m. when members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front attacked the Abu Sayyaf that left three bandits dead.

Another clash erupted at 4 p.m.  SFM