Thursday, November 5, 2020

Gapay lauds Westmincom’s successful anti-terror ops in Sulu

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 5, 2020): Gapay lauds Westmincom’s successful anti-terror ops in Sulu (By Priam Nepomuceno)



AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Gilbert Gapay. (File photo)

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Gilbert Gapay on Thursday commended the Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) for their successful operation which led to the neutralization of seven Abu Sayyaf terrorists in Parang, Sulu last Nov. 3.

“Your relentlessness and commitment in defeating these terrorists were eminent in this operation and thus worthy of appreciation from our whole organization,” Gapay said in a statement.

Reports showed that Westmincom's Joint Task Force-Sulu successfully conducted an operation around 2 a.m. on Tuesday with an Air Force AgustaWestland AW-109 attack helicopter and multi-purpose attack craft with Scout Rangers and Special Forces troops aboard.

“Congratulations for a job well done. I am confident that in no time we will be able to defeat this local terrorist group,” he added.

During the intense firefight in the open waters, the terrorists were tracked by an Augusta helicopter through intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities. The Navy’s newest multi-purpose attack craft from the 3rd Boat Attack Division then rammed the terrorists’ speedboat. Only the front portion of the enemies’ boat remained afloat.

Killed in the 25-minute encounter was Mannul Sawadjaan who was declared “heir” of slain Islamic State leader Hajan Sawadjaan.

The military’s operation foiled the group’s possible abduction attempts of foreigners and locals in the area.

“The efficient use of our assets brings about significant gains in our fight against enemies of the state. This proves that armed with high-level weaponry and equipment, our skilled soldiers can render these terrorists defenseless,” Gapay added.

Assault rifles, ammunition, and other equipment were recovered by troops following the encounter. As of Thursday morning, search and retrieval operations are still ongoing for the bodies of the seven violent extremists.

Military records as of Thursday show a total of 65 ASG members were killed while 99 members surrendered since January of this year.

Meanwhile, 122 firearms and 10 improvised explosive devices were seized and surrendered in various operations.

“Let us keep our nation peaceful and secured by being prepared to quell any attack from all threat elements. We will continue pushing for the AFP Modernization program to capacitate our troops towards fully capable, responsive, and highly professional armed forces and source of national pride,” Gapay said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1120899

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