MNLF faction denies coddling Abus, says they are ready to aid government vs terrorists

ZAMBOANGA CITY – A faction of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) that clashed with troops recently denied yesterday that Abu Sayyaf fighters had sought refuge in their camp, and that they are willing to help the military hunt down the terrorists in Sulu.

Khaid Ajibun, MNLF zone chairman, said they have agreed to open their line of communication with the military to prevent another "misencounter."

His men clashed with troops who were running after the Abu Sayyaf in Barangays Marang and Buansa in Indanan, Sulu last Sunday, he added.

However, the military said the Army Scout Rangers coordinated with the MNLF before the encounter after tracking down the Abu Sayyaf from Barangay Marang to the MNLF camp.

Lt. Gen. Eugenio Cedo, Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief, said the soldiers were situated a kilometer away and did not enter MNLF camp in Buansa.

The troops led by 2nd Lt. Peter Ryan Sison waited for their emissary to emerge from the MNLF camp, he added.

However, soldiers saw 40 heavily armed men approach their position and start firing, leaving Sison and 13 other soldiers wounded.

Cedo said military intelligence is verifying reports that Abu Sayyaf leader Albader Parad was among those killed in the encounter Saturday with Army Scout Rangers in Barangay Marang, where two terrorists were killed and three others wounded.

Meanwhile, the five other wounded Rangers have been airlifted from Sulu to a military hospital in Jolo after their conditions stabilized.– Roel Pareño