5 Abu bandits, soldier wounded in Basilan clash

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — Five Abu Sayyaf bandits and a soldier were wounded in an encounter in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan yesterday.

Brig. Gen. Domingo Gobway, Joint Task Force Basilan and 101st Brigade commander, said the clash occurred in Sitio Mapute, Barangay Baguindan at around 8:30 a.m.

He said among those encountered by government troopers were members of the group of Abaas, a follower of the late Furuji Indama who was tagged in bombing attacks in Isabela City on May 31.

Attack helicopters were deployed to provide air support for ground forces. Military operations were ongoing as of yesterday afternoon.