2 Abu bandits surrender

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — Two Abu Sayyaf bandits surrendered in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan on Sunday, police said yesterday.

Jamad Habil Habing, 22, and his brother Jem, 20, who are followers of Furuji Indama, also turned over an M16 rifle, an M203 grenade launcher, ammunition and a bandolier, according to Superintendent Rufino Inot, Basilan police director.  

Authorities said fewer than 40 Abu Sayyaf members are hiding with Indama in Sampinit, a mountain complex in Basilan. 

Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Gov. Mujiv Hataman said livelihood assistance and skills training  provided to surrenderees are enticing more bandits to return to the fold of the law.