Abu Sayyaf man killed in clash with troops

ZAMBOANGA CITY — An Abu Sayyaf demolition expert was killed when security forces raided his hideout in an island town in Sulu province Saturday night.

Maj. Eugene Batara Jr., Armed Forces Western Mindanao Command spokesman, said Sam Andal was killed in the ensuing shootout after he sensed the arrival of troops and police in his hideout in Sitio Buta-buta, Barangay Parian Dakula in Pandami town.

“However, the suspect noticed the arrival of the forces and welcomed the troops with volley of gunfires,” he said.

Batara said troops  brought the remains of Andal to a mosque inside Westmincom headquarters Zamboanga City, where an Islamic ritual was given before burial.

Security forces recovered from Andal an M16 rifle, M79 grenade launcher, one rifle grenade, and various high-powered ammunition, he added.

Batara said Naval Task Force 61, Special Action Force, Marines  and military intelligence agents launched the raid following information that Andal was hiding in the target area.

Government troops had to engage Andal in a shootout after he fired at them, he added.