An Abu Sayyaf Group bandit was killed, two others were captured, and eight others surrendered in separate operations over the weekend, the military reported Sunday.
Brigadier General Cirilito Sobejana, commander of Joint Task Force Sulu, said the operations were “another significant setback on the part of the ASG.”
Sobejana said an unidentified ASG fighter was killed in an operation in Sitio Tubig Gantang, Barangay Lagasan-Higad at around 1:30 a.m. on Friday.
Government troops also arrested Delson Kansiong, 27, and Nadzfar Abdulla, 19, and recovered two high-powered firearms and other assorted ammunition.
Along with the slain fighter, the three bandits are members of the ASG under sub-leader Idang Susukan, Sobejana said. Kansiong and Abdulla have been brought to Sulu Provincial Police Office for detention.
Meanwhile, said the eight bandits who surrendered on Saturday morning were remnants of the group of Abu Sayyaf sub-leader Alhabsy Misaya.
Sobejana said the ASG members surrendered to the 2nd Special Forces Battalion at its headquarters in Sitio Bayug, Barangay Samak in Talipao town at around 7:35 a.m. on Saturday.
Surrendering were Rakib Usman Mujakkil, 35; Sadhikal Sabi Asnon, 38; Jarrain Elil, 52; Wahab Buklaw, 47; Anggan Ali Sahaw, 43; Bandi Ahadjula, 56; Adih Manis Juhaini, 25; and Alden Banon, 30.
The Abu Sayyaf troops also surrendered eight high-powered firearms including two M16 rifles, one M14 rifle, and five M1 Garand rifles.