Special Forces soldier wounded in Sulu clash with Abu Sayyaf

MANILA, Philippines — An Army soldier was wounded following a clash between government troops and suspected members of the Abu Sayyaf Group in Sulu on Friday morning.

Soldiers were providing route security when they were fired upon by Abu Sayyaf members in Sitio Bangkawan in Brgy. Tanum at around 8 a.m., said Western Mindanao Command spokesperson Maj. Arvin John Encinas.

Private First Class Ferdinand Payumo of the 6th Special Forces Battalion sustained shrapnel wound on his back due to a rifle grenade explosion.

The suspects ran away after the soldiers returned fire. /kga