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Abu Sayyaf leader killed in clash
ZAMBOANGA CITY, Aug. 14 — An Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) leader, described as a well-experienced navigator, was killed in an encounter with government troops in Sulu, military officials said Monday.
Brig. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, Joint Task Force Sulu commander, identified the slain ASG sub-leader as Salvador Muktadil alias Badong, who was a well-experienced speedboat operator.
Sobejana said the troops killed Muktadil in a heavy gunfight at around 1:10 a.m. Sunday in Silangkan, Parang, Sulu.
Sobejana said Muktadil had an arrest warrant for kidnapping and serious illegal detention and nine-count murder.
He said the ASG usually tapped the services of Muktadil in the execution of high profile and cross-border kidnappings.
“Badong is well-experienced in operating speedboats utilized by the Abu Sayyaf as getaway vehicle n executing kidnapping ploy,” he said.
“His death rendered high seas kidnappings, particularly in Tawi-Tawi and Sabah, suppressed,” he added.
He said Muktadil was involved in the kidnappings of Yahong Lim in Sempornah, Sabah; Evelyn Chang of Tawau, Sabah; and, Mayor Gemma Adana of Naga, Zamboanga Sibugay.
He said the remains of Muktadil was brought to Camp General Teodulfo Bautista Trauma Hospital in Barangay Busbus, Jolo, Sulu for proper procedure.
Muktadil was a sub-leader operating in Sabah, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Zamboanga City, and Zamboanga Sibugay.
“His neutralization was a result of the maximized intelligence operations of our troops and the cooperation and support of the local leaders and folks,” Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez Jr., Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) chief.
“I commend the troops of the Joint Task Force Sulu led by their Commander Brigadier General Sobejana for this recent accomplishment,” Galvez added.
