Death toll from gov’t forces, Abu Sayyaf clash in Sulu rises to 8
ZAMBOANGA CITY—The number of casualties in the clash between government forces and Abu Sayyaf bandits on Capual Island in Omar town in Sulu on Tuesday has risen to eight, the military said.
Captain Jo-Ann Petinglay, spokesperson of the Western Mindanao Command, said three bandits were killed in another clash on Tuesday.
The military earlier reported that five bandits were killed in the operation launched by the Philippine Marines under the Joint Task Force Sulu against the Abu Sayyaf group led by Alhabsy Misaya.
Four of those killed were identified as Karra Kinod, Asbiali Ijiram, Bari Rabah and Hassan Angkong.
Government troops also recovered two grenade rifles and assorted ammunition.
Major General Carlito Galvez Jr., commander of Western Mindanao Command, said the military offensives were being intensified “to contain the Abu Sayyaf group and facilitate the possible rescue of hostages on the hinterlands of Sulu.”
Galvez said several bandit groups are holding 27 hostages, including 19 foreigners. RAM
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