10 ASG bandits killed in single military operation Friday

From Update.Ph (Nov 18): 10 ASG bandits killed in single military operation Friday

Ten Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits were killed and undetermined number were wounded as troopers from the 35th Infantry Battalion engaged the brigands in another focused military operation in Patikul, Sulu Friday morning.

In the said encounter, four soldiers were killed while nine were wounded in action.

The clash between government forces and an estimated 150 ASG bandits reportedly led by Radullan Sahiron took place around 10:20 a.m.

Western Mindanao Command spokesperson Major Filemon Tan said the encounter that lasted for almost 45 minutes transpired in Sitio Dyundangan, Brgy Buhanginan, Patikul.

Tan said the ASG retreated after sustaining 10 dead and undetermined number of wounded.

He added troops recovered the bodies of the three slain bandits while the rest of the dead and wounded ASGs were dragged by their companions based on intelligence reports.

“Immediately, indirect fire support were delivered by 105mm howitzers while other units conducted pursuit and blocking operations,” Tan said.

Joint Task Group Sulu, the mother unit of the 35th Infantry Battalion, is now facilitating the casualty evacuation and directed S-76 air ambulance to conduct medical evacuation from Sulu to Camp Navarro General Hospital in Zamboanga City.

All units were directed to establish checkpoints in their respective areas.

“Despite the casualties incurred, the military continues to conduct combat operations against the ASG to destroy the bandits, rescue the kidnap victims and deter terror attacks perpetrated by the bandit group in the province of Sulu and possibly in other provinces as well,” Tan added.

http://www.update.ph/2016/11/10-asg-bandits-killed-in-single-military-operation-friday/11122