1 killed, 6 wounded in predawn Zambo clash between AFP, suspected MNLF gunmen

From GMA News (Sep 9): 1 killed, 6 wounded in predawn Zambo clash between AFP, suspected MNLF gunmen

A soldier was killed, with at least six others wounded, during a  clash between the armed forces and suspected Moro National Liberation Front gunmen before dawn Monday in Zamboanga City.

Residents in three villages were evacuated, businesses were closed and classes were suspended in the city, radio dzBB's correspondent JV Francisco reported.

Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala, head of the Armed Forces of the Philippines public information office, said the encounter occurred off the coast of Rio Hondo in Zamboanga City.

Citing initial reports, Zagala said the encounter involved suspected MNLF fighters and the Naval Special Operations Group.

"Yung malungkot, may isang kasundaluhan na namatay at may mga wounded," he said over dzBB radio.

Zagala added that they were verifying if some MNLF fighter managed to enter the city proper.

Meanwhile, Maj. Harold Cabunoc, commander of the Philippine Army's 7th Civil Relations Group, said the gunbattle occurred at 1:45 a.m.

"Let's offer a minute (of) prayer for the fallen soldier who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the service of our country," Cabunoc said on his Twitter account.

Initial information

Initial reports reports from the military said some "100 more or less" armed followers of the MNLF's former chairman Nur Misuari were involved in the encounter.

An earlier dzBB report said the encounter started at 1 a.m. when the Misuari gunmen approached the city via the coastal village of Mariki.

The fighters exchanged gunfire with Navy personnel and members of Task Force Zamboanga. At least one suspected Misuari fighter was reported wounded in the shootout.

Residents in Mariki, Sta. Barbara and Rio Hondo villages were evacuated because of the clashes.

Following the encounter, security was tightened in the city, with military and police personnel establishing security checkpoints.

The city government is to convene its crisis management council Monday morning.

http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/325608/news/regions/1-killed-6-wounded-in-predawn-zambo-clash-between-afp-suspected-mnlf-gunmen