4 bandits, trooper slain in Sulu clash

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — Four suspected Abu Sayyaf bandits and an Army trooper were killed in an encounter in Patikul, Sulu on Saturday.

Nine were wounded, including four soldiers, in the firefight that lasted 30 minutes, according to Lt. Col. Gerald Monfort, public affairs chief of the Joint Task Force Sulu.

The troopers were tracking down at least 40 bandits in Sitio Tambang, Barangay Kabbon Takas when the fighting broke out at around 1:40 p.m.

The offensive was launched based on information provided by residents.

The military recovered the body of one of the slain bandits as well as some personal belongings, food, medical equipment, a rifle and backpacks at the scene of the encounter.

The bandits retreated toward the jungle, taking with them their three slain comrades.  

The slain soldier and the wounded troopers were brought to Camp Gen. Teodulfo Bautista, in Barangay Bus-bus, Jolo.

The bandits were reportedly followers of Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan, the alleged leader of  terrorist group IS in Sulu, according to Brig. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete, chief of the Army’s 1101st Brigade.

Sawadjaan has been wanted for bomb attacks staged in the province since January this year.