Islamic State liaison to ASG killed in Sulu clash — AFP

Image: Courtesy of the Armed Forces of the Philippines

MANILA, Philippines — An Islamic State (IS) – trained bomb expert, who also served as a liaison between the terrorist group and the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), was killed in a clash with the military in Sulu, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said Saturday.

In a statement, the AFP’s Joint Task Force Sulu confirmed the death of Talha Jumsah, also known as Abu Talha, during an armed confrontation with the 1st Scout Ranger Battalion in Barangay Tanum, Patikul Sulu on Friday morning.

The body of Abu Talha was retrieved Saturday morning, during a follow-up operation conducted by the 1101st Infantry Brigade.

According to the AFP, Abu Talha was an expert in making improvised explosive devices and served as an instructor to the ASG in the making of bombs used for suicide bombings in Sulu.

Abu Talha, the AFP said, was also considered a high-value target.

“The death of Abu Talha will surely cause demoralization in the ASG ranks in Sulu. It could not have been made possible without the support of the Tausug community who reported the presence of the armed terrorists and volunteered to serve as guides during the conduct of combat operations,” 1101st Brigade Commander Brid. Gen.  Antonio Nafarrete said.