Abu suspect slain in Basilan

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines  – A suspected Abu Sayyaf bandit was shot dead by an unidentified assailant in the downtown area of Lamitan City, Basilan yesterday morning.

Abdul Asmaril Lampas of Ungkaya Pukan town, said to be a spotter of the bandit group, was on his motorcycle when he was shot several times at around 8:40 a.m. in Barangay Matibay.

Senior Inspector Gean Gallardo, Lamitan police officer-in-charge, said Lampas died at the scene from seven gunshot wounds. 

Authorities are investigating Lampas’ presence in Lamitan as well as the motive for the attack.