5 bandits surrender in Basilan

COTABATO CITY, Philippines — Five alleged Abu Sayyaf bandits surrendered to authorities in Basilan on Saturday.

The surrenderees – Omar Hajubain, Amil Palluh, Farhat Palluh, Merham Palluh and Basri Tukul – turned over three rifles and improvised explosive devices during a ceremony in Ungkaya Pukan town.

The surrender was facilitated by the Army’s 64th Infantry Battalion as well as by officials of the provincial government led by Gov. Jim Salliman, according to Brig. Gen. John Guyguyon, Bangsamoro police director.

More than 300 Abu Sayyaf bandits based in Basilan have surrendered in batches in the past seven years.