2 DPWH-ARMM workers killed in ambush

ZAMBOANGA CITY  , Philippines  — Two workers of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) were killed in an ambush staged by suspected Abu Sayyaf bandits in Basilan yesterday.

Basit Daimun  and Ahzhar Dakis, cement mixer operators of the DPWH in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, died at the scene.  Their co-workers Mitoy Estajal and Abdul Sarabin were wounded and taken to a hospital for treatment.

The victims were on a dump truck on their way to Lamitan when they were waylaid in Barangay Baas, Brig. Gen. Juvymax Uy, Joint Task Force Basilan and 104th Army Brigade commander, said.

Superintendent Christopher Panapan, Lamitan police officer-in-charge, said the ambush could be related to the extortion activities of Abu Sayyaf bandits in the province.

DPWH-Basilan  district engineer Soler Undug said they have been receiving extortion demands from the bandits.

A manhunt for the assailants is ongoing.