Abu bandit slain in Sulu encounter

MANILA, Philippines — A suspected Abu Sayyaf bandit was killed in an encounter with government forces in Patikul, Sulu on Saturday night.

The suspect, whose name was not immediately available, was killed in a pursuit operation in Barangay Pang-layahan at around 6:30 p.m.

The firefight started at past 3 p.m. between the members of the Army’s 32nd Infantry Battalion and some 40 bandits led by a certain Hajaan Sawadjaan, according to Brig. Gen. Divino Rey Pabayo, chief of the Joint Task Force Sulu.

The initial encounter lasted 35 minutes after the bandits retreated toward the hinterlands.

No casualty was reported among the government security forces.

The military recovered improvised explosive devices  and personal belongings of the bandits at the scene.

Pabayo said villagers inform the military every time the bandits come to the area.

Lt. Gen. Arnel dela Vega, chief of the Western Mindanao Command, said the military has been implementing intensified operations against the Abu Sayyaf. – With Roel Pareño