15 ASG members, including 1 wanted in Malaysia, surrender to Army

MANILA, Philippines—At least 15 members of Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), including one of Malaysia’s most wanted men, surrendered in Sulu on Friday (Dec. 11), according to the military.

In a statement, the anti-terror Joint Task Force Sulu said the 15 ASG members turned themselves over with their firearms.

One of those who surrendered was Alvin Yusop, alias Arab Puti, a close-in aide of top leader Radulan Sahiron.

Yusop was also on Eastern Sabah Security Command’s most wanted list early this year for his involvement in kidnapping of Indonesians.

ASG leader Barahim Nurhajar, under Hatib Sawadjaan, also surrendered to the military. He was behind the kidnapping of a mayor in Sulu in the past.

Among those who surrendered were two sons of Apoh Mike, an ASG leader and kidnapper—Muarip Adja, alias Arip, and Hatimil Adja, alias Timmir.

Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, commander of the Army’s 11th Infantry Division, said the surrendered terrorists would be given “full on-integration program” with livelihood aid.

Gonzales told those who surrendered that the Army is coordinating with the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Process and the governor of Sulu “so that you can start a new life.”

“Tell the others that they are welcome so long as they are sincere, willing to face the rule of law, and most of all ready to cooperate in our fight for peace here in Sulu,” he told the surrendered ASG members.

TSB