Abu Sayyaf killer-for-hire slain in Basilan raid

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Zamboanga del Sur, Philippines — An Abu Sayyaf member in Basilan who reportedly specializes in gun-for-hire operations was killed in a raid in Sumisip town on Friday, Nov. 13.

Col. Domingo Gobway, commander of the Army’s Joint Task Force Basilan, identified the slain suspect as Hasid Salajim, also known as Boyron and Pilay.

He said Salajim was an Abu Sayyaf member under sub-leader Pasil Bayali.

Gobway said Salajim was the suspect in the killing of a militiaman who worked as an intelligence operative for the Army.

Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan Jr., commander of the Western Mindanao Command, said Salajim fired at the troops as they got off a military vehicle in Barangay Etub-Etub.

The troops seized an M-16 assault rifle from Salajim.

Vinluan said Salajim was the 7th Abu Sayyaf member killed in an encounter within the year.

From the beginning of the year to date, 28 bandits have also surrendered and two were arrested.

[atm]