3 Abu Sayyaf, 1 Marine killed in clash in Sulu

ZAMBOANGA CITY – A member of the Philippine Marines and three members of the Abu Sayyaf Group were killed in a heavy skirmish in Patikul, Sulu on Thursday, an official of the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) said.

Colonel Gerry Besana, public affairs officer of Westmincom, said troops of the Philippine Marine Ready Force Sulu (PMRFS) clashed with more than 50 armed Abu Sayyaf members reportedly led by Majid Emamil on Minis Island in Patikul around 2:25 a.m. on Dec. 13.

“(The fighting led to) the killing of three Abus, based on body count, (and) a soldier and (the wounding of) two other (soldiers),” Besana said.

Two M14 rifles were recovered at the encounter site.

The bodies were promptly evacuated to Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Hospital in Busbus, Jolo. Soldiers were still trying to notify the family of their slain comrade.

Earlier this morning, the two wounded personnel were airlifted to Camp Navarro General hospital in Zamboanga City for further medical treatment.

Lieutenant General Arnel Dela Vega, Westmincom chief, said he was deeply saddened by the news “that another gallant soldier was killed. “Rest assured that we will extend all assistance to the bereaved family,” he said.

Dela Vega also directed the Joint Task Force Sulu to intensify the offensives against the Abu Sayyaf. /muf