Manhunt on for Abus behind plantation workers' ambush

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines - The military and police launched a manhunt for Abu Sayyaf militants behind the ambush on plantation workers in Basilan Friday, a military official said yesterday.

The military said the Abu Sayyaf group is believed to be responsible in previous attacks since April this year that left dozens of rubber tappers killed and scores wounded.

Maj. Gen. Ricardo Rainier Cruz III, 1st Army Division chief, identified some of the suspects as Wims Wakil, Umair Wakil, Abul Wakil, Madie Umangkat Sahirin, Kursie Umangkat Sahirin and Cabot Mastul Atatul.

The ambush at around 11:30 a.m. Friday in Barangay Tumahubong left a worker dead and 36 others wounded.

Police said the Wakils were former rubber plantation workers who rebelled against the management and joined the Abu Sayyaf.

Cruz said joint pursuit operations continued as joint elements of the 3rd Scout Ranger Battalion, 64th Infantry Battalion and police forces were tracking down the bandits.

“They took advantage when our troops were busy on the peace and development activities. I was saddened on the condition of the victims who were mixed Muslim and Christians,” Cruz said.