5 soldiers hurt, 2 Abu Sayyaf gunmen believed killed in Basilan clashes

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – Two Abu Sayyaf gunmen were believed killed while five Scout Ranger soldiers were wounded in two separate clashes in a village in Sumisip, Basilan, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, said on Wednesday.

The Task Force Basilan commander, Brig. Gen. Alexander Macario, said both clashes took place in Baiwas village on Monday.

He said the first clash occurred around 8:40 a.m. when patrolling soldiers spotted suspected Abu Sayyaf members.

The bandits, Macario said, eventually withdrew.

“They (soldiers) pursued the armed elements, unfortunately during the pursuit, they tripped a landmine,” Macario said.

He said Staff Sergeant Dennis Espaniola and Privates First Class Louie Orina and Jonard Olivar, all of the 13th Scout Ranger Company, were hit by the exploding land mine.

Around 3:45 p.m. of the same day, Macario said another Scout Ranger team clashed with Abu Sayyaf gunmen.

He said during the 10-minute encounter, Privates First Class Al James Rebutado and Joe Elbert Buna were injured.

Macario admitted that the bodies of the slain armed men had not been recovered, and that the figure was based on reports from the residents.