Idjirani: sultanate's spokesman claims Filipinos from Sulu went to Lahad Datu on their own to augment the beleaguered forces there.
Members of the Royal Security Force of the Sulu sultanate who remain holed up in Lahad Datu, Sabah despite continuous Malaysian assault have received additional reinforcements from sympathizers in the Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi areas.
Abraham Idjirani, sultanate spokesman and secretary general, said in a phone interview that as of this time, Raja Muda Agbimuddin Kiram and his Royal Security Force are already numbered at over 400, after dwindling to just over 160 following heavy Malaysian assault.
Idjirani said more Filipinos went to Sabah on March 29 and April 5 on board boats, able to slip past the naval blockade set up by both the Philippines and Malaysia. He said "70 to 80 percent" of those who went there were reportedly armed.
He said these Filipinos went there on their own due to "accumulated anger" after their loved ones in Sabah were either allegedly killed or harassed by Malaysians.
Idjirani urged the Philippine government to intervene to stop supposed Malaysian abuses in Sabah to prevent more supporters from going there.
On April 6 and 7, clashes reportedly erupted between Malaysian forces and Filipino fighters in Tanjung Batu. But Idjirani said the sultanate's stand of unilateral cease-fire remains. The raja muda is also reportedly safe and in hiding.
Meanwhile, Idjirani also said that they are studying seeking China's help in their claim to Sabah, citing historic ties between the Sultanate of Sulu and North Borneo with China. He said the sultanate's Royal Council will hold a meeting to discuss this option.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/59040/with-reinforcements-sultanate-force-in-sabah-now-at-400--idjirani
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