As government continue the conduct of focused military operations in the province of Sulu, troops of the Joint Task Force Sulu encountered an undetermined number of Abu Sayyaf Group members on May 14, 2021.
“Operating forces of the Joint Task Force Sulu were engaged in a gun battle with the ASG members in Barangay Kagay, Indanan, Sulu early morning, Friday,” said Lt. Gen. Corleto Vinluan, Jr., Commander of the Western Mindanao Command.
Said exchange of fire ensued for five minutes, after which the enemies withdrew to different directions.
According to Brig. Gen. Antonio Bautista, Commander of the 1101st Infantry Brigade, three soldiers were wounded during the said encounter.
“The battle casualties were immediately extricated from the area and rushed to Kuta Heneral Teodulfo Bautista Station Hospital for medical attention and they are now in stable condition,” said Brig. Gen. Bautista.
Clearing operations followed after the fire interdiction which yielded to the recovery of one ASG member cadaver, one cal. 45 pistol, one backpack, one solar panel, personal belongings, and foodstuff good for 10 persons.
“Pursuit and blockade are being conducted by the Joint Task Force Sulu to thwart the extrication of the local terrorists group. This is another one blow to the ASG and we hope we could be able to neutralize the remaining members of the terrorist group the soonest” said Maj. Gen. William Gonzales, Commander of the Joint Task Force Sulu
Meanwhile, the recovered enemy cadaver was brought to KHTBSH for identification and proper disposition.
“The slain ASG member was identified as Arab Undo, one of the remaining followers of the slain ASG Senior Leader Hatib Hajan Sawadjaan,” Maj. Gen. Gonzales confirmed.
From January to May 10, 2021, the Joint Task Force Sulu neutralized a total of 94 ASG members, eight of which were killed, 76 surrendered, and 10 were apprehended.
“The Western Mindanao Command through the Joint Task Force Sulu under Maj. Gen. Gonzales continues to conduct military operations and maximize intelligence monitoring with the assistance of our partners and stakeholders to disallow the ASG to create havoc in the communities and preempt their terroristic activities,” said Lt. Gen. Vinluan, Jr. (Wesmincom Public Information Office)