MANILA –Another four Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits were killed while seven high-powered firearms were seized as troops from the 64th Marine Company clashed with the brigands in Sulu Sunday early morning.
Government security forces were conducting focused military operations in Barangay Lumipad, Talipao, Maimbung in response to reports that the bandits were gathering in the area.
In the ensuing encounter, four of the ASG were killed, forcing the reminder to scamper for cover, Joint Task Force Sulu commander Col. Cirilito Sobejana said.
“After scouring the site of encounter, marines found four dead bodies of the ASG members and recovered seven high powered firearms (which includes two M-16s and two M-203s),” he added.
With Sunday’s encounter, the number of ASG bandits killed by government forces within the last 72 hours has climbed to 14.
Last Friday, Joint Task Force Sulu battled an estimated 120 of the bandits, reportedly led by Radullan Sahiron, at Barangay Igasan, Patikul town around 9 a.m.
In the two-hour engagement, 10 ASG bandits were killed and undetermined number wounded.
As this develops, Western Mindanao Command (WMC) head Major Gen. Carlito Galvez lauded 64th Marine Company for their successes against the bandit group and the civilians who gave them the timely information.
“Our troops are more than motivated to go after these bandits who know nothing but to victimize innocent civilians for their own personal gain,” he added.