Notorious ASG leader killed in Sulu encounter

ABU SAYYAF GROUP (Photo courtesy of the Institute for the Study of Violent Groups)

MANILA — The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reported on Sunday the death of a notorious Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) leader following a shootout with government security forces at Barangay Duyan Kaha, Parang town, Sulu Saturday afternoon.

Col. Allan Arrojado, AFP Joint Task Group Sulu commander, identified the slain ASG leader as Sihata Latip, who was shot dead when he resisted arrest and engaged the security forces in a firefight at around 4:45 p.m.

One soldier was killed while another one was wounded during the brief clash with the bandit leader.

Arrojado said Latip was involved in the abduction of foreigners and in a series of violent attacks against government forces.

The military and the police are continuously pursuing notorious bandits who are now in the run in Sulu.

AFP chief-of-staff Gen Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. has commended the troops for the neutralization of a wanted criminal in the area.