2 bandits surrender in Sulu

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — Two Abu Sayyaf bandits, who joined the militant group for support and protection from a clan war, have surrendered to authorities in Sulu, security officials said yesterday.

Sahiron Bud, 77, and Juli Sabita, 50, both followers of  slain Abu Sayyaf leader Alhabsi Misaya, surrendered on Friday to the Naval Task Group Sulu and 4th Marine Brigade in Omar town, according to Rear Admiral Toribio Adaci Jr., chief of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao Command.

The militants turned over their rifles that were issued to them by Misaya.

Bud and Sabita have been hiding for eight years. They decided to surrender after seeing the intensified implementation of the social integration program in the second district of Sulu.