2 killed, 13 wounded in Basilan clash

From the Sun Star-Zamboanga (Mar 25): 2 killed, 13 wounded in Basilan clash

TWO Abu Sayyaf bandits, including an explosive expert, were killed while 13 others were wounded in a three-hour gun battle in a remote village of Basilan province, the military reported Friday.

Major Filemon Tan, Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) information officer, said the gun battle broke out around 7:55 a.m., March 25, at Sitio Luglugi in the village of Macalang, Al-Barka, Basilan.

Tan said the slain Abu Sayyaf explosive expert was identified as Eric Ajibon, who is also a sub-leader, and the other one was only identified as a certain Abu Aiyan.

The remains of the slain Abu Sayyaf bandits were turned over to the police for pro
per disposition.

Tan said Ajibon was responsible in the series of bombings against the government forces and business establishments in Basilan province.

The gun battle ensued after the residents reported to the Army’s 4th Special Forces Battalion the presence of around 40 Abu Sayyaf bandits led by Isnilon Hapilon in Sitio Luglugi, Macalang, Al-Barka.

According to Tan, seven of the 13 wounded were government troops. Five of them are soldiers while the other two are militiamen.

The wounded troops were taken to the Camp Navarro General Hospital in Zamboanga City, and in stable condition.

Tan said they received intelligence report that six followers of Hapilon were wounded during the clash and were dragged by the fleeing comrades.

He said the troops have recovered war materials and personal belongings at the clash site.

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/zamboanga/local-news/2016/03/25/2-killed-13-wounded-basilan-clash-464357