Sulu bomb attack foiled

From the Daily Tribune (Dec 24): Sulu bomb attack foiled

Government troops foiled an attempt by the terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) to bomb a public park in Sulu where an improvised explosive device (IED) was discovered.

Col. Allan Arrojado, commander of the military’s Joint Task Group Sulu, said that joint elements of the Jolo Internal Defense Force (JIDF), Explosives and Ordnance Division (EOD) of the Philippine National Police-Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) and Jolo police recovered the IED at the Jolo Plaza Park at around 10:30 a.m.

The place was near a Catholic church where the traditional “Simbang Gabi” are being held.

With the aid of K9 units, the authorities found the IED and subsequently detonated the bomb.

Arrojado said that the IED was found packed in a cellophane plastic containing two 1.5 liter Coke and mineral water with ammonium nitrate. The IED was also packed with nails as shrapnel.

“This can inflict (harm) and can kill in the immediate vicinity if exploded. We are thankful that it was found and reported to us,” Arrojado said.

Arrojado cited the timely information provided by concerned citizens in the area.

“The civilians noticed the wiring,” he added.

Arrojado said that the IED was planted by the Abu Sayyaf terrorists to divert government attention from the ongoing all-out law enforcement operation in Sulu.

 

“Of course the ASG,” replied Arrojado when asked who could be behind the foiled bombing, adding “to divert the ongoing law enforcement operation which is ongoing until now,” Arrojado said.

http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/sulu-bomb-attack-foiled