AFP:  2 subleaders among 6 Abu Sayyaf bandits killed in Basilan, Sulu

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Six Abu Sayyaf bandits were killed in the continuing military operation in Basilan and Sulu on  Friday, the military reported.

Major Filemon Tan Jr., the  spokesperson of the Western Mindanao Command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines said two of those killed were identified as sub-leaders of the bandit group.

Tan said the Basilan clash took place in Tipo-tipo town around 6:30 a.m., where two bandits under Radzmil Jannatul alias Khubayb,  and Guro Arah, were slain.

Nine government troopers were injured and have been airlifted to a military hospital here, he said.

Soldiers also recovered a 50-caliber machine gun, Tan said.

About three hours after the Basilan clash, Tan said soldiers also encountered the group of Abu Sayyaf leader Alden Bagadi in Barangay Langpas in Indanan, Sulu.

Four Abu Sayyaf gunmen were killed in the clash while two soldiers were injured, he said.

“Close air support was provided to the engaged troops. Military troops further recovered the remains of the enemy’s casualties,” Tan said.

Tan did not say who among the slain Abu Sayyaf bandits were the sub-leaders.

The military has been conducting massive operations in Basilan and Sulu since last month after the bandit group beheaded two foreign hostages and refused to release the remaining kidnap victims, still numbering over two dozens as of Friday.  SFM