Soldier dead, 3 hurt in clash with Sayyaf

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – One soldier was killed and three others were wounded yesterday in a clash between Army troops and the Abu Sayyaf in Sumisip, Basilan.

Capt. Alberto Caber, spokesman of the Army’s 1st Infantry Division, said the encounter happened in Barangay Baiwas in Sumisip town at around 8:45 a.m. yesterday.

Members of the 20th Special Forces Company were conducting clearing operations when they encountered at least 35 fully armed Abu Sayyaf bandits led by Juhaibel Alamsirul alias Abu Kik.

Caber said the firefight, which left one soldier dead and three others wounded, lasted for about 30 minutes.– Roel Pareño, Alexis Romero