5 Abu Sayyaf bandits surrender in Basilan

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 14, 2023): 5 Abu Sayyaf bandits surrender in Basilan (By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.)

PEACE. Five Abu Sayyaf bandits (2nd to 6th from left) surrender to government forces in Barangay Tumahubong, Sumisip town, Basilan province on Thursday (Jan. 12, 2023). The bandits, who also turned over three firearms and ammunition, said they want to reunite with their families. (Courtesy of Area Police Command-Western Mindanao)

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Five Abu Sayyaf bandits wishing to reunite with their families have surrendered in Basilan province, a top police official said Saturday.

Farhat Kang Palluh, Amil Palluh, Merham Hasalal Palluh, Basri Tukul and Omar Hajubain, all residents of Barangay Bohe Suyak, Ungkaya Pukan town surrendered and turned over three rifles and ammunition on Thursday afternoon following a series of negotiations worked out by the police and the Army’s 64th Infantry Battalion.

Col. Richard Verceles, operations chief of the Area Police Command-Western Mindanao, said the five were followers of Basilan-based bandit leader Pasil Bayali.

The surrenderers underwent tactical interrogation and custodial debriefing and were taken to Ungkaya Pukan Rural Health Unit for medical examination.

They were then turned over to the Ungkaya Pukan Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office for social services, financial assistance, skills training and other support given to former extremists.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1192737