‘Abu leader’s death major blow to bandits’

MANILA, Philippines -  The death of Alhabsy Misaya, an Abu Sayyaf sub-leader known for kidnapping activities in Sulu, will cripple the bandit group, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Eduardo Año said yesterday.

“Misaya, who was killed in a firefight in Parang town on Friday night, was as bold and ruthless as Muamar Askali, alias Abu Rami,” Año said.

He said both Misaya and Askali, who was killed in Bohol last month, were in charge of kidnapping foreigners.

“Misaya’s ability to radicalize young Tausugs was significant to the Abu Sayyaf. His death will diminish the bandit group’s capability to sow terror,” the AFP chief said, adding they have received surrender feelers from some Abu Sayyaf members.

AFP spokesman Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said Misaya’s death would bring peace, progress and security to Sulu.

Brig. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the Joint Task Force Sulu, said government security forces raided Misaya’s hideout in Barangay Silangkan Proper and killed the bandit after a brief firefight.