ASG bandit killed, 2 others surrender due to relentless military ops

From the Philippine News Agency (May 20): ASG bandit killed, 2 others surrender due to relentless military ops

An Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) member was killed while two others surrendered as focused military operations against the lawless group continue in the Western Mindanao Command's (WMC) area of operation.

At about 2 a.m. Friday, troopers of the 61st and 65th Marine Companies, Marine Special Operations Group and the 2nd Special Forces Battalion clashed with an ASG band formerly led by Alhabsy Misaya, who was earlier killed by government forces in Bangalaw Island, Banguingui, Sulu.

In the ensuing firefight, a bandit identified only as "Imbo" was killed. Also recovered by government forces were an M-16 automatic rifle, magazines and ammunition.

Aside from these, a sachet of shabu and five empty plastic sachets were also found in the suspect's pocket, along with a cellphone.

"Imbo is an ASG/KFRG member and trusted contact in Bangalaw island of the late Misaya," Joint Task Force Sulu commander, Brig. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, said.

"He is a KFR contact and facilitator in the island and a keeper of Misaya's firearms and pump boats used in kidnapping ventures."

No casualty was reported on the government's side while it is believed that the bandits suffered heavy losses from the encounter due to the bloodstains seen in the site.

Meanwhile, two ASG members under sub-leader Nurhassan Jamiri surrendered to the Joint Task Force Basilan under Col. Juvymax Uy last Thursday.

Janatin Mudjaral Madjakin alias "Atin", 44, and Aldasid Madjakin alias "Alda", 19, surrendered to troops of the 3rd Scout Ranger Battalion in Camp Cordero, Campo Uno in Lamitan City, Basilan at 9:30 p.m.

The duo yielded an M16-A1 rifle and an M-79, following their surrender.

Uy said the pair decided to return to the folds of the law due to the relentless military operations against the ASG.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/989443