10 'bandits' killed, soldier hurt in Sultan Kudarat clash

From the Philippine News Agency (May 19): 10 'bandits' killed, soldier hurt in Sultan Kudarat clash

Ten alleged bandits were killed and a soldier was slightly injured following an encounter with a lawless armed group in a remote village in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat late Thursday afternoon, the military said.

Lt. Colonel Harold Cabunoc, 33rd Infantry Battalion (B) commander, said soldiers and the local police were serving a warrant of arrest against a certain “Commander Dimas” alias “Dragon,” a former Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) field commander who turned into banditry, when the clash occurred in Barangay Bual.

Commander Dimas is facing multiple murder and multiple frustrated murder charges.

“We were fired upon as we approach the target wanted person, and that triggered a firefight,” Cabunoc said.

Cabunoc said Sgt. Davides Endario of 33rd IB was slightly injured.

Commander Dimas fled with his men deeper into the forest of Bual, leaving his slain companions and several firearms, Cabunoc said.

The remains of the 10 fatalities were turned over to local officials, he said.

Cabunoc said pursuit operations continue.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/989126